Old oak tree at risk due to gas station development

“The reason why the tree was destined for destruction was because it lined up directly across from the median opening,” Precinct 4 Commissioner Jack Cagle said. “By moving the median opening, we were able to convince them it was the right thing to do to save the tree.”

The tree is estimated to be anywhere from 130 to 150 years old, he said.

Cagle said an arborist is scheduled to determine the health of the tree.

“There’s always a chance that you’d inadvertently weaken or injure the tree,” Cagle said. “We just want to make sure it stands the best chance of not being injured and hurt in any way.”

He said the tree is important to the community.

“It goes into the saving of memories and history of the region,” he said.