Community raises concerns over protected coast live oak tree in Palo Alto development

The Planning & Transportation Commission meeting held on March 12, 2025, in Palo Alto focused on significant concerns regarding a proposed development project, particularly its impact on a protected coast live oak tree. The meeting featured public comments from residents and experts who expressed strong opposition to the project, citing potential harm to the tree and surrounding environment.

One of the main issues raised was the adequacy of the proposed tree protection zone. A representative for the concerned residents highlighted that the tree, which has a trunk diameter of 50 inches and a height of 60 feet, is classified as a protected species due to its size and ecological importance. The current plan suggests a 30-foot protection zone, which the speaker argued is insufficient, especially since the city’s regulations specify a 41-foot zone. The speaker emphasized that the proposed construction could severely damage the tree's roots and canopy, potentially leading to its death.

Concerns were also raised about the design of the building, which encroaches on the tree's protection area. The speaker pointed out that balconies extending into the tree's zone could necessitate further pruning, risking the tree's stability and health. The potential for root damage due to construction activities was another critical point, with the speaker asserting that the roots extend much further than the proposed 20-foot zone for construction work.

The meeting included a series of public comments, with two groups and ten individual speakers voicing their opposition. Residents expressed fears that the development could not only harm the tree but also pose safety risks to the community if the tree were to fall.

In conclusion, the discussions at the meeting underscored the community's strong commitment to preserving the coast live oak tree and raised important questions about the balance between development and environmental protection. The commission will need to consider these concerns as they move forward with the project review process.