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County proposes closing part of Jennifer Circle to protect 'champion' tree; majority of surveyed neighbors favor closure
Summary
County engineer presented an arborist report that identified a large tree near Jennifer Circle as a 'champion' specimen and proposed removing asphalt under the canopy, installing a low open fence and a one‑way emergency access; of about 40–50 households contacted, roughly 18 responded and about 70–75% favored partial closure in the survey.
Jonathan Holmes, Effingham County engineer, told commissioners that an arborist has identified a large roadside tree on Jennifer Circle as a potential “champion” specimen and recommended canopy maintenance and limiting vehicle traffic under its canopy to preserve the tree.
Holmes said the tree is within the county right of way and that the county already approved limited arborist work to preserve it. The proposal discussed would remove the asphalt immediately beneath the canopy, mulch the area, install a low open fence (the county's standard park fence was discussed as an option) and create a one‑way emergency access over a relocated driveway and extended pipe. The fence would be designed to allow pedestrian and bicycle passage while discouraging routine vehicle through‑traffic.
Holmes said he mailed a survey to all affected homeowners along the segment (about 40–50 households contacted); 18 people responded. He said about 70% of those respondents favored closing the road beneath the canopy. At a later point Holmes referenced the survey as showing roughly 75% in favor; staff characterized the result as roughly three‑quarters of respondents supporting closure. Holmes said he had removed a previously proposed cul‑de‑sac to avoid taking additional right of way after residents raised concerns.
Commissioners asked whether buses or emergency vehicles could use the access. Holmes said the county could designate the route for emergency use only, with a robust single‑lane access and signage; commissioners warned that opening the gate to buses could invite daily use. Holmes said the county would maintain the fence and that the Georgia Forestry or other partners may assist with champion‑tree registration and a plaque.
No formal vote was taken. Holmes said staff will prepare a formal agenda item, publish notices and hold a public hearing before any road closure or fence installation occurs.
