I would like to pose this to the group for discussion.
First, I'm pro development and growth but also value our green spaces and big trees. I just think we could do a little better of a job here...
There are 2 Heritage Live Oaks on the City ROW at this site that are slated for permanent removal. Tree 804 (29" at the corner of 11th & Sabine) & Tree 805 (32" on 11th). 805 is dead and dying and obviously cant be saved. What about tree 804? The developers are proposing to pay $200 per caliper inch total (300% replacement for Heritage Trees of 24" or larger per law) for tree 804 ($17,400) to the Waterloo City Park Development Fund. This info can be found on page 37 of 39 in the site plan link.
It seems a little ironic to me that many larger trees were cut down in Waterloo park for the tunnel construction project and that this is a missed opportunity to help replace the removed tree canopy. The park is less than 1.5 blocks from this tree so why cant it just be moved there? Probably because it costs too much right?
UT has moved/relocated 46 heritage trees over the years with a 93% success rate. Kudos to them! Greenwater developers relocated a live oak on Cesar Chavez to the upper bank of Shoal Creek recently. Northshore built around several big trees creating an inviting patio space albeit at an expense. The Independent built around several large trees. Is it not worth it? I personally think so.
Here is the street view of the subject tree:
https://www.google.com/maps/place/E+...4!4d-97.734364
Here is the UT tree relocation story:
https://sustainability.utexas.edu/co...building/trees
I welcome your opinions and perspectives. Thx!