With the fate uncertain, petition circulates for safety of trees on The Varsity property

As The Varsity building in Athens awaits demolition, local residents are pleading for the security of the property’s large magnolia trees.

More than 4,000 people have signed an online petition to save the trees closest to the Milledge Avenue side of the property. A review has been filed for demolition of the property by W&A Engineering, the designers of the proposed project for developer Fuqua Development. 

The demolition review filed by W&A Engineering was approved in late May and asked that the entire structure, approximately 6,800 square feet, be demolished. However, in answer to the question of whether or not any trees will be be removed or disturbed, the applicant responded "no."

It is unclear whether or not the trees would be removed at a later time. W&A Engineering had not responded to the Athens Banner-Herald about the fate of the trees as of 1 p.m. Friday.

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Before demolition of the structure can begin, a demolition permit must be filed. As of 1 p.m. Friday, no permit had been filed at the Athens-Clarke County Planning Department.

On Thursday, a small group gathered on the property of The Varsity to protest the possible removal of the trees. Protesters held signs reading “Trees are the lungs of our town” and “Protect old growth” as they stood next to the trees, some of which have a rope or ribbon tied around them.

The petitioners fear the roped-off trees are being marked for removal.

“We hope this show of support can sway the Fuqua Development Company from cutting down every single old growth tree, as they have currently flagged the entirety for removal,” said the petition. 

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The petition was created Wednesday with a goal of 5,000 signatures. It has also been shared online by the Athens band R.E.M. Additionally, an Instagram page has been created for updates as the situation develops.