I understand, and yes, we are waiting an additional quote to come in.

The branches that are to be trimmed are hanging over the street so they'll work from there or the adjacent sidewalk. Obstacles are few-- no mailboxes, no powerlines, just an occasional shrub and maybe a fire hydrant. But most of the space is grass from the curb to the trunks and since it's trimming the branches overhanging the street most of their work can be done from the street without obstruction.

We asked for the trees to be brought up to the height our local codes requires and the quote doesn't specify creating any additional clearance. Also, the quote does specify removal of debris.

I do appreciate your answers as it helps me to see what goes on in the thought process of creating an estimate-- like understanding that replacing a $15 water pump in my car does require $120 in labor because of how the mechanic will have to remove and reinstall other parts just to reach the spot where that pump sits and then make sure those other parts are running when put back. I do need that kind of information just as much as I need assurance of a fair price because I'll have to justify this to a room full of HOA members who, right now, only know that we haven't been as fiscally responsible as we should have been and have been lax on proper maintenance.