All but one of the trees along the front and the west side (Washington and Main sides) of the Washington Parish Courthouse will soon be cut down.
Dead and decayed branches in the trees have made them a hazard to motorists and pedestrians, parish officials said.
Recently, there have been several instances where falling branches have hit vehicles. Parish officials consulted with tree specialists from LSU AgCenter in reaching the decision to have the trees removed.
The cutting and removal project will be handled by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development because the trees are on state property, not parish property. The project will start soon, and officials want motorists in the area of the courthouse to be aware and to be cautious.
The tree that will remain is an oak that is sufficiently strong and sturdy enough. In addition, the parish government is planning at some point to replace the trees that will be cut.
