Keep an eye on Angel Oak

The city of Charleston's decision to purchase 6.5 acres next to the Angel Oak has shifted attention away from the larger issue: a dense complex of apartments and commercial space designed to be built only 160 yards away.

It is this proposed development that, several years ago, alarmed people near and far who feared that the buildings, traffic and removal of wetlands would damage the beloved tree's root system.

And it is this proposed development that the public should continue to scrutinize out of concern for protecting the Angel Oak and the area's rural character. That will mean taking careful note of plans pending before the city of Charleston to make the project work.

Members of savetheangeloak.org have objected to developer Robert DeMoura's plans at each turn. For example, an appeal was recently filed against the Department of Health and Environmental Control, which issued a water quality permit for the development.

Meanwhile, Mr. DeMoura is trying to win approval from the city of Charleston's Design Review Board, which has denied him preliminary approval to date. Board members expressed concern about the project's boxy buildings and the way they were sited on the property.

Samantha Siegel, who has led the opposition effort, recently noted in an op-ed that the development now plans fewer affordable units than promised earlier. It has long been promoted as a source of housing for people of moderate income like teachers and firefighters.

The current proposal calls for 578 apartments, 55 of which would be affordable housing. The agreement was for 12 percent, or 69 units. That should be of concern to city officials who have promoted the project.

The Angel Oak, whose age is believed to be anywhere from 400 to 1,400 years, is a Lowcountry icon and a place of tranquil beauty.

Even with a wooded buffer between the apartments and the tree park, it is reasonable for people to be wary of noise, lights and traffic that could mar the serenity.

And with conflicting scientific reports about whether the development might harm the tree, it is reasonable that they fear for the tree itself.

Until the issue is resolved on all fronts, it is worth following carefully to ensure that the Angel Oak and its environs will be protected.