UPDATE: A heated debate is unfolding over the future of the beautiful black olive trees in the median of Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, as the City Commission prepares to vote on the Las Olas mobility project’s western corridor on January 20, 2026. Residents are voicing their passionate support for these trees, emphasizing their beauty and importance to the community.
Randall Robinson, a resident of Victoria Park, expressed his admiration for the trees, noting their umbrella-like shape and how they enhance the pedestrian experience along Las Olas. “If we’re serious about pedestrians as a priority, there’s no question who goes in the middle — pedestrians, cars or trees,” he stated, urging city officials to consider the trees’ aesthetic and environmental value before making drastic changes.
Community members are rallying around the idea that these trees should remain a central feature of Las Olas. Robinson suggests a gradual transition that respects the existing greenery while addressing the mobility concerns. He believes that the beauty of these trees should give way to more beauty, rather than being sacrificed for development.
As the City Commission meeting approaches, the urgency grows. Residents are encouraged to voice their opinions on the future of the black olives, which many believe are crucial to the character of Las Olas. The outcome of this vote could significantly alter the landscape and pedestrian experience of one of Fort Lauderdale’s most iconic streets.
The discussion is not merely about trees; it reflects broader concerns about urban planning, community identity, and the balance between development and preservation. Will the voices of residents be heard in this critical decision?
Stay tuned as this story develops and find out how the city responds to the community’s passionate plea to keep the beloved black olive trees on Las Olas.
