Tree removal planned near Allen Street Gate, Lion Shrine before winter break

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State's Office of Physical Plant will conduct two tree removal projects at University Park this month that will result in temporary sidewalk closures near the Allen Street Gate and a two-day closure of the Nittany Lion Shrine to public access. 

Work will take place Dec. 15 and 16 to remove a large elm tree overhanging the Allen Street Gate that was discovered to have elm yellows disease over the summer. The work will result in short-term sidewalk closures along the mall to Pollock Road. Restricted areas will be taped off and signage will be in place to alert pedestrians to the work. The replanting of four trees is planned for the area in the spring.

Tree removal also is planned at the Nittany Lion Shrine, which will result in the closure of the shrine on Dec. 22 and 23 to remove three large white oak trees that were found to have basal root rot. Four trees will be replanted in the area in the spring.

All work is expected to begin at 6 a.m. with an anticipated completion time of 4 p.m. each day. The Office of Physical Plant apologizes for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closures and appreciates the community’s understanding of the importance of maintaining the safety of these areas as well as the health of our campus trees.

Questions can be directed to the Office of Physical Plant by phone at 814-865-4731.