The momentum to protect Mandarin’s historic canopy continues to grow—and now it’s being recognized beyond just our neighborhood.

The Northeast Florida chapter of the Sierra Club, in their April newsletter, highlighted the importance of preserving the Mandarin tree canopy and acknowledged the seriousness of the proposed 2.3-mile sidewalk extension along Mandarin Road.

This matters.

Because for months, residents have been told this is a small, routine project with limited impact. Yet respected environmental organizations are now publicly recognizing what we have been saying all along:

👉 This is not just a sidewalk.

👉 This is a permanent change to the character, environment, and history of Mandarin.

Mandarin’s canopy roads are not replaceable. They are part of what makes this community unique—not just visually, but environmentally. These trees provide shade, reduce heat, support wildlife, and preserve the natural identity of our area.

Once they are removed or compromised, they cannot simply be “replanted” and restored.

We appreciate the NE Florida Sierra Club for helping bring broader awareness to what is at stake. Their acknowledgment reinforces what thousands of residents have already made clear:

📍 This project deserves far more scrutiny

📍 The environmental impact is real

📍 The community opposition is substantial and growing

If you have not yet signed or shared the petition, now is the time.

and also email

MBoylan@coj.net   To state your opposition to this extension

Stay informed. Attend upcoming meetings. Make your voice part of the record.

Because once this canopy is gone—

it’s gone.