Photo: Liudmyla Liudmyla / iStock / Getty Images
A Paramus woman has taken up the cause to save a 300-year-old South Catalpa tree, a longstanding natural monument in the heart of the city. The tree, located near Spring Valley Road, is currently under threat due to a proposed redevelopment project.
The woman has been tirelessly advocating for the preservation of the tree. She first brought her concerns before town officials in March. Despite her passionate plea, the officials stated that the tree holds no historical significance that would warrant its preservation.
The South Catalpa tree, known for its distinctive large heart-shaped leaves and long seed pods, has been a familiar sight for Paramus residents for centuries. However, its existence is now hanging in the balance as it is slated for removal to make way for the new development.
Critics of the redevelopment project argue that it fails to take into account the ecological impact and the loss of natural heritage. The woman at the forefront of this fight believes that the tree’s age and longstanding presence in the community should be enough to deem it significant.
The next hearing on the redevelopment project is scheduled for October 26th. It is expected that the fate of the South Catalpa tree will be a major point of discussion. Supporters of the tree are hopeful that their efforts will lead to a reconsideration of the plans.