After a heated debate and controversy, the City of Austin is moving forward with plans to cut down three huge trees in Zilker Park on Monday.

The trees are located in or near the playground and include two pecans and an elm.

A consensus of professional opinions determined the trees needed to be removed due to their poor condition and safety concerns.   

Parks officials say the trees will be turned into art. R. L. Blair, a nationally renowned wood carver, will turn the wood from the trees into pieces of art.   

“I don't have a great vision. I am going to go out there and assess the material. If it's a nice big solid tree, it gives me a lot more latitude. If it turns out to be hollow or defective, we can make something as simple like a bench out of it. I'm just going to turn them into something of interest,” said Blair. 

Blair’s wood carvings will stay in the Barton Springs Pool area.  The wood will also be used to make guitars and souvenirs.