Verona’s iconic Douglas Fir stands as a beloved symbol, whether you're passing Town Hall on Bloomfield Avenue, visiting the various municipal buildings in the Civic Center, or attending Verona’s annual holiday festivities. For many years, Fair in the Square and the holiday tree lighting have been cherished highlights of the winter season in Verona. After extensive care and research, it has become increasingly clear that our cherished tree has been in decline over the past few years and is now approaching the end of its useful life.

To maintain the Civic Center area as a lively and well-kept symbol of Verona, while preserving its natural beauty and community traditions, the Shade Tree Commission has partnered with local arborists and the Township Administration. Together, they have been evaluating and strategizing for a long-term replacement plan.

Taking all of this information into account, it is being recommended to plant a new tree this Spring. The goal is for the new tree to be mature enough to host the annual tree lighting ceremony by 2026 or 2027, while the declining tree at the center of the Civic Center will be removed. The suggested replacement tree is a Caucasian Spruce, recognized for its ability to withstand temperature fluctuations. This tree species can reach heights of 50 to 60 feet, with a spread of 15 to 25 feet and will attract wildlife that plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

With the removal of the aging tree and the addition of the new one, the view of Verona’s Municipal Building architecture will be enhanced, providing a clear line of sight to the flagpoles and war memorials. The public area for Township events held in the Civic Center will also be expanded. Verona's dedication to both the visual impact and environmental well-being goes beyond this single replacement tree. Additional landscaping and tree management plans are being developed. This area, enhanced with new benches and exhibits, has the potential to become a new central outdoor destination in town.

Timeline:

Spring 2025:

• Remove declining trees from the park area.
• Install a 16-18 ft Oriental spruce in the 9-11 Memorial area.

Winter 2025:

• Decorate the center tree as usual.

2026/2027:

• Remove the center Douglas fir at the end of its lifespan
• Decorate the new spruce and park area before “Fair in the Square.”

Residents are encouraged to engage in this ongoing process and share feedback. The Shade Tree Commission holds monthly meetings, which are open to the public, on the second Monday of each month at 5 PM in the Community Center. Stay tuned for more updates at VeronaNJ.org.