Virginia Beach residents in the Pine Ridge neighborhood are voicing their concerns over Dominion Energy’s tree removal as part of its offshore wind project, stating that it has left their homes vulnerable.

Neighborhood Impact

Dominion Energy’s clearance of a 140-foot wide strip of trees behind properties in the Pine Ridge neighborhood aims to accommodate power lines for transmitting energy from offshore wind turbines to a substation in Chesapeake. Homeowners, like John Rooney, are alarmed by the removal, fearing the increased vulnerability of their properties.

Rooney, a resident of 25 years, expresses shock over the removal of the trees, highlighting the potential risks posed to the remaining smaller trees on his property. He and several other homeowners along his street share similar apprehensions about the safety of their homes in the absence of the protective tree cover.

Weather Experts’ Assessment

Meteorologist Jeremy Wheeler from Super Doppler 10 supports residents’ concerns, explaining the potential consequences of the tree removal. He emphasizes that while tree clusters typically act as wind barriers, the absence of such clusters can create a wind-tunnel effect, potentially amplifying damage during severe weather events like thunderstorms.

Dominion Energy’s Response

In response to community concerns, Dominion Energy is engaging in discussions with the city of Virginia Beach to explore potential solutions. The company offers homeowners the option to hire licensed contractors to remove additional trees, albeit with discouragement. Additionally, Dominion suggests that residents seek permission before planting smaller vegetation on their properties as a mitigation measure.

Conclusion: Seeking Resolution

As Virginia Beach residents voice their worries about the impact of Dominion Energy’s tree removal on their homes, ongoing dialogue between the company and local authorities aims to address these concerns. However, until a satisfactory resolution is reached, residents like John Rooney remain vigilant and prepared to address any potential issues arising from the altered landscape.

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