A $1.3 million plan for 531 trees—with Webb Bridge utility work unfinished

Alpharetta is considering a $1.30 million contract to plant 531 trees along Webb Bridge Road and North Main Street this winter—even as Public Works acknowledges that some Webb Bridge utilities have yet to be relocated.⁠[1]

Staff recommends awarding Russell Landscape up to $1,296,535.09. City Council is scheduled to consider the award Nov. 9, with planting planned for November 2026 through February 2027.⁠[1][2]

The plan calls for 271 trees along Webb Bridge Road Phase 2B, between the Big Creek Greenway and Webb Bridge Way, and 260 along North Main Street from Cumming Street to Windward Parkway. The species mix includes oaks, magnolias, bald cypress and hollies.⁠[1]

The price buys more than trees. Russell’s proposals list about $309,000 for watering and associated equipment across the two roads. The package also includes root barriers intended to protect sidewalks and curbs, and the city’s specifications require a two-year warranty for all trees.⁠[1]

Public Works says it told Georgia Power and other utility providers earlier this year about its planting timetable. Its plan is to monitor utility relocation, document any damage to plantings or city infrastructure, and coordinate repairs or replacements with the appropriate providers.⁠[1]

Shrubs are outside this contract. Staff expects a separate cost proposal in early 2027, explaining that trees have better survival rates when planted in winter, while shrubs fare better near or after the last anticipated frost.⁠[1]

The proposals came through Russell’s existing on-call landscape-installation contracts. Staff says it found the pricing competitive against current market conditions and fiscal 2026 landscape-project costs.⁠[1]

The Nov. 9 council meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers at Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza.⁠[2]