A large tree in downtown Chapel Hill has fallen victim to a strong storm that passed through the area on Sunday.

Officials say the tree at the corner of West Franklin and North Roberson streets – directly in front of DSI Comedy Theater and Carolina Brewery – lost “multiple large limbs” during the storm. The debris blocked the downtown sidewalk.

Officials said in an email that some outdoor seating and other property at Carolina Brewery was damaged but that no individuals were hurt.

The approximately 80-year-old tree was on the town’s “watch list” due to suspected internal rotting, according to the correspondence.

The damage caused by the storm, in addition to the disease afflicting the tree, led the town arborist to decide the tree’s stability had been compromised and was therefore a hazard to the public.

Crews began working to remove the tree on Monday.

This is the latest of several large trees that have been removed from Franklin Street recently due to decisions the trees had become hazards to the public. Officials say new trees that are native to North Carolina will be planted as replacements. The new planting will likely be done in the fall.

Photo via Sean Williams

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