Janfred Existing Utility Facility Infrastructure Maintenance Project Eliminating Tree Encroachments

The Janfred Existing Utility Facility Infrastructure Maintenance Project, managed by the Helix Water District, involves the removal and grooming of trees encroaching upon a utility easement in La Mesa, California. The primary objective is to protect a 51-inch water transmission main, which serves as a critical feed for residential and commercial customers district-wide, by mitigating root intrusion risks that could lead to pipeline failure or leakage. This work is essential for ensuring ongoing facility maintenance and providing immediate, unobstructed access for emergency repairs. The project is scheduled to take place between November 1, 2025, and February 14, 2026. To ensure environmental compliance, all work will be performed outside of the bird nesting season, and only trees not protected by local or state permit regulations will be removed, meaning no tree removal permits are required. The project is categorically exempt under Class 1 and Class 4 of the State CEQA Guidelines, as confirmed by a Notice of Exemption filed on September 30, 2025. Project management is led by Debbie Lundy, and the work is located specifically within the easement between 9475-9539 Janfred Way.