The Long Bridge Project Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 amends the Urban Forest Preservation Act of 2002 to establish specific conditions under which the Mayor can issue a permit for the removal of a Heritage Tree located abutting or within the site of the Long Bridge Project, managed by the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority. The new provisions stipulate that a permit can be granted only if there are no reasonable design alternatives to avoid the tree's location, the Urban Forestry Division confirms that the tree cannot be protected in place, and the applicant demonstrates that either the cost of relocation exceeds $1 million or that relocation would impose an undue burden on the public. Additionally, the applicant must agree to pay $1,200 for each inch of the tree's circumference.

This emergency legislation is designed to facilitate the Long Bridge Project while ensuring that the removal of Heritage Trees is carefully regulated and justified. The act will take effect upon approval by the Mayor and will remain in effect for a maximum of 90 days, in accordance with the emergency provisions of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act.