A lane closure begins today on Banyan Drive in Hilo to allow for the removal of a banyan tree because of public safety concerns. A recent assessment — conducted by a certified arborist — of 48 banyan trees on the Waiakea Peninsula road identified the single tree for removal because of structural instability. The southbound lane of Banyan Drive, between Banyan Way and Kamehameha Avenue, will be closed 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday as the tree is removed. Removal work applies only to this single banyan tree. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ADThe county also has a contract out to bid for maintenance of other Banyan Drive trees that will focus on removing invasive species, aerial roots and deadwood.