Coral Gables Activists Continue Fight to Save Decades-Old Tree Amid Redevelopment Project

Redevelopment Project and Tree Relocation Debate

• 🌳 A fight over a decades-old tree in Coral Gables is back in the spotlight, concerning a proposed redevelopment project.
• 🏗️ Developers propose moving the tree, stating it will save it, while critics argue that relocation could kill it.

Appeal Process and Panel Decision

• 🏛️ Activists filed an appeal against the city's decision to greenlight a proposed nine-story building.
• ⚖️ A three-member panel of licensed architects heard the case, with activists arguing the tree is a specimen and should remain in its original location.
• ❌ The panel unanimously voted in favor of the developer, denying the activists' appeal.

Activist's Next Steps and Determination

• 🗣️ Activist Bonnie Bolton and her attorney argue that political muscle is being used to increase density and building size.
• 🗓️ Bolton has been fighting for four years to preserve the tree and the area, facing several setbacks.
• ✊ Despite the denial, Bolton remains undeterred, stating they will not give up until it's over.
• 🔜 The next step for activists is to appeal to the city commission, with a potential lawsuit as a subsequent option if that appeal is denied.