Updated March 2, 2026

In the coming weeks, the Kissing Tree will begin its final chapter. 

Tree removal is anticipated during Spring Break (March 16–21) as part of a project to improve safety and install an ADA-compliant sidewalk along this corridor. Before that work begins, this is the community’s opportunity to visit the Kissing Tree one last time - to take photos or simply pause beneath its branches. 

To help make it easier to capture a final photo, the City will have a photographer available: 
 
Mark Your Calendars – You’re invited! 

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Where: The Kissing Tree on Grant Street outside of West Lafayette Junior/Senior High School 
When: Monday, March 9 
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

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No sign-up is required - stop by if you’re in the area. This lunchtime window is intended to make it easy for students, working professionals, neighbors, and passersby to participate. 

Photos may also be taken anytime. If you choose to share photos with us, they may be: 

As the Kissing Tree prepares for its final chapter, we invite the community to visit and capture a moment of their own.

For decades, this oak tree has quietly stood along Grant Street near West Lafayette Junior/Senior High School, witnessing daily life in West Lafayette and countless moments shared beneath its branches.

Over time, it became known as “The Kissing Tree,” a nickname passed down through generations and woven into local lore. For many in our community, the tree has been more than just part of the landscape; it has been a familiar landmark tied to memory and tradition.

On Valentine’s Day, we share the story of the Kissing Tree and what it has meant to West Lafayette, while also beginning an important conversation about why it must soon be removed to improve safety and accessibility along this corridor.

Like many love stories, this one is cherished - and now, it’s time to thoughtfully turn the page.

Addressing Safety and Accessibility

The Kissing Tree is a beautiful, mature oak, estimated to be 150–200 years old:

• Root growth has displaced the concrete curbing and damaged the sidewalk
  
  
• The sidewalk along this stretch of Grant Street is no longer ADA-compliant, limiting safe, accessible travel for pedestrians of all abilities
  
  
• During high-wind storms, the tree's size and structural condition pose increasing risks to nearby homes and the roadway

 Why Removal is Necessary

Given the Kissing Tree's condition, it is no longer possible to preserve the tree without compromising public safety and accessibility. 

It’s important to remember that trees can appear strong and vibrant despite challenges:

• Trees can appear healthy while still experiencing structural decline below ground
  
  
• Large, mature trees in urban environments face additional stress from sidewalks, roads, and utilities
  
  
• As trees age, root systems can conflict with infrastructure 

As a Tree City USA, we carefully consider any tree removal before it happens. However, after evaluations by the City's arborist, the Kissing Tree can no longer be saved. It is in our community's best interest to have it removed. 

The City is moving forward with a project to both remove the tree and address accessibility and safety issues in this area:

• Remove the Kissing Tree.
  
  
• Install a new 6-foot-wide ADA-compliant sidewalk
  
  
• Construct a block retaining wall to support the corridor and improve long-term stability
  
  
• Install a commemorative plaque will be installed at this location, recognizing the Kissing Tree and its place in West Lafayette’s history
  
  
•  Due to space constraints after the sidewalk is widened, a replacement tree cannot be planted at this location
  
  
• Plant 126 trees citywide in 2026 through the Parks and Recreation Department, including a tree that will be named “The Kissing Tree” in honor of this landmark

Timeline 

We expect to remove the tree during West Lafayette Community School Corporation's spring break week (March 16–21, 2026), subject to weather conditions.

Edited February 26:  

The goal is to have the construction of the sidewalk and retaining wall completed by the end of April.

We know the Kissing Tree’s story is about more than infrastructure; it is woven with memories and meaning. As we prepare for its removal, we want to honor its history and give the community a chance to say goodbye.

The City will continue to share project updates, and invite residents to visit, reflect, and take photos one final time. 

Thank you for your understanding. As we move into this next chapter, we remain committed to honoring the tree’s legacy while improving safety and accessibility for our community.

If you have questions about the project or the timeline, please contact the City’s Communications Department at communications@westlafayette.in.gov, or the Engineering Department at 765.775-5160.

To learn more, click the link to the email we shared on February 14: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/INWESTLAFAYETTE/bulletins/4098b88