Miami Residents File Appeals Against Developer’s Plan to Remove 46 Trees for New Construction

A contentious dispute has emerged in a Miami neighborhood where residents and environmental advocates are challenging a proposed residential development that would require the removal of dozens of established trees. The Adella 3 project, being undertaken by Acre Developments, calls for demolishing 46 trees near Legion Memorial Park to clear the way for construction, among them five substantial oak trees estimated to be 120 to 150 years old.

Local resident Peter Ehrlich and environmental attorney David Winker have led efforts to block the plan, filing multiple appeals with the city. Winker contends the developer has failed to demonstrate that the trees cannot be preserved while still completing the project, and that the company has not satisfied municipal code requirements mandating alternatives be explored before tree removal is approved.

Preservationists argue that the mature trees provide measurable environmental benefits including temperature reduction, shade coverage, improved air quality, and wildlife habitat protection. Ehrlich characterized the situation as symptomatic of a broader pattern in which developers prioritize speed of construction while city officials allegedly facilitate tree removal through campaign contributions.

To offset the tree loss, Acre Developments has committed to planting 103 new trees across the property and surrounding areas upon completion of the project. Winker noted the unprecedented number of appeals filed—eight in total—reflecting the community’s strong opposition to the proposal.

The developer’s legal representation did not respond to requests for comment regarding the ongoing appeals process as of publication.