Editor’s Note: The video above is from KXAN’s newscast on July 17, 2025.
AUSTIN (KXAN) — The city of Kyle has approved funding for the relocation of a 400-year-old tree that has been part of the community conversation since 2020. The funding will cost $932,800.
The funding will provide “pre-treatment, tree relocation, and aftercare” of the tree, also known as “Jolene,” according to the city of Kyle. The funding amount is “$848,000 , with a contingency of 10% at $84,800, for a total contract amount of $932,800.”
Here is the breakdown of the costs, as provided by the city:
- Road restoration: $129,540
- Water valve installation by KWU: $5,000
- Pocket park development: $300,000 – $600,000 (preliminary estimate)
KXAN reported in July that the city was prepping Jolene to keep it healthy before its planned relocation from Old Stagecoach Road.
Kyle City Council voted 6-1 in February to relocate the tree with the intention of “realigning the Old Stagecoach Road Project around the tree,” according to the 2022 road bonds.
According to the city, the tree will be relocated 90 days prior to the Old Stagecoach Road improvements, with planned construction to begin in March 2026.
Once the relocation happens in the fall, the city said post-relocation care will happen from fall 2025 to fall 2027.