A banyan tree in Hilo that has been deemed a “public safety hazard” is being removed.
A traffic lane closure is now in effect on Banyan Drive to allow a contractor to remove the tree, which is not one of the named trees along the route, according to a Hawaii County press release.
An assessment recently done on 48 banyan trees on Banyan Drive identified the single tree for removal because of structural instability.
According to the assessment — conducted by a certified arborist — the tree’s observed structural defects and recent canopy failure “creates a significant public safety hazard.”
The tree has lost about 20% of its crown, and any additional failure could occur over the roadway. The tree removal contract applies only to this single banyan tree.
The assessment was done following the deaths of two women who were killed last July when a large banyan tree on Kilauea Avenue collapsed. That tree was on state land.
“This emergency action is part of our efforts to protect public safety and ensure that this iconic part of Hilo gets the care and attention it deserves,” Mayor Kimo Alameda said in the press release.
In addition, the county has a contract out to bid for maintenance of other Banyan Drive trees that will focus on removing invasive species, aerial roots and deadwood, according to the press release.
As the contractor removes the tree, the south-bound lane of Banyan Drive between Banyan Way and Kamehameha Avenue will be closed from 7 a.m.to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The work tentatively is scheduled to be completed by Thursday, Feb. 12.