Pave Paradise? One local group is pushing back against city plans to remove a symbolic tree that is in the way of the next bike lane route being constructed.
The Wharf-Humboldt bike lane is set to run through the intersections of Government, Wharf and Humboldt streets, where a mature tree currently stands.
Janet Simpson with the Community Trees Matter Network, says the city preaches climate action -- but isn't always putting it into practice.
"We take the easiest route, sometimes the more logical route. Definitely the most cost effective route. But in times of climate emergency, I think we need to consider other things, that we don't take down mature healthy trees that are providing s much for us."
She says the tree provides a positive impact on the environment.
Simpson says the city would plant more saplings when the tree is cut down, but it's not enough to match the good the current one offers.
"The city is considering, as some kind of solution, to plant more trees, up to four more trees in this area. But that's not addressing the climate emergency that's happening now, because it would take about 250 saplings to sequester the same amount of carbon that this tree is sequestering now."
She says the public needs to let the city know that they want this tree saved, and if they do, it might be saved in the way the trees along Grange road in Saanich were saved.
"All those trees would have come down to accommodate the sewer line, if a lot of citizens hadn't got together and fought it, vehemently. And now, all of a sudden, there's an alternative. Engineering has come up with a solution, that doesn't require the removal of all those trees. And I would like to see that same creative energy put towards this location."
She adds that the tree is symbolic because it is right in front of the Visitors Centre, and "says to the world, this is Victoria's attitude toward the urban forest, and the climate emergency."
Simpson says she would like to see the public rally support the tree, and let City Council know that it needs to stay standing.
She adds that the public should also call on City Council to implement their Urban Forest Master Plan, which has been dormant for the past 5 years, as well as create a moritorium on removing trees in the city, especially native trees like Garry Oaks.