Hearing Set on Centuries Old Red Oak Tree

Teaneck’s Historic Preservation Commission has scheduled an April 25 public hearing on its designation of the town’s more than 250-year-old red oak tree as a historic site, the township said.

The massive oak tree, at Cedar Lane and Palisade Avenue, once faced the prospect of being turned into woodchips, after public outcry. County officials granted the site a conservation easement and the tree was .

“The purpose of the hearing is to provide an opportunity for owners and interested persons to challenge or contest such designation,” a statement from the Township Clerk’s Office said.

Teaneck residents, including State Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg, have lobbied for years to save the massive oak.

A decision in early 2010 by the former property owner, the Union for Traditional Judaism, to cut down the tree sparked controversy. Tree experts brought in by the township contended the tree could be saved with proper care, while the UTJ cited safety concerns.

After protests, the UTJ decided to put its until after the land was sold. Current owner through a bankruptcy auction and vowed to preserve the more than 250-year-old tree. The Puffin Foundation also helped raise funds for the easement.

The congregation to protect the tree.

The Teaneck Historic Preservation Commission’s hearing will be held April 25 at 8 p.m. in the . 

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