A second round of tree-trimming and foliage-thinning along White Rock’s “hump” has been authorized by Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway.

“We realize with the February Olympics approaching, it would probably be beneficial to get this out of the way and enhance the view,” Gus Melonas, spokesperson for BNSF, said Thursday. “We are ready to begin.”

Marine Drive resident Barb Mallard and neighbours have been pushing the city to address the issue since 2001, citing concerns about property values and public enjoyment of the area. Petitions and meetings have been “to no avail,” Mallard writes in a Nov. 23 email to the mayor, councillors and others.

But city manager Peggy Clark notes the city would only be involved as a facilitator.

“If somebody wanted to make an application through BNSF and was able to meet the conditions they require, that would be between them,” Clark told Peace Arch News.

Council agrees with the work, providing slope integrity is maintained, she added. “But it’s the BNSF’s railway and they’ve always said safety is their prime concern.”

Last year, a Phase 1 vegetation-control project tackled 100 metres of BNSF land east from the pier, with a promise no whole trees would be removed. Melonas said Phase 2 continues with the next 100 metres towards the border, and will include “slight additional trimming” of the area tackled last year.

An engineering review determined the work poses no threat to stability, Melonas said, noting the only thing left is to figure out who will foot the bill.

While the railway will provide a flag person for the site at no charge, an arbourist’s fees are another matter, Melonas said.

Meanwhile, a local activist has vowed to renew protests against tree trimming on the hump, should they begin again.

Don Pitcairn, who was at the centre of controversy last year that stalled attempts to cut trees and thin foliage, said there is no acceptable level of such work. If trees are cut this time, he plans to take it up with Transport Canada’s Railway Safety Division officials.

Members of Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society have also voiced concern, noting work could damage nesting, food and protective habitat for birds, roosting habitat for raptors, and the only air-quality screen and shade along Marine Drive.

“Yes, views are nice but at what price?” Marg Cuthbert writes in response to Mallard’s email.

with files from Alex Browne