The 40-year-old Japanese cherry blossom trees outside the Sakura restaurant have been saved. 

They were at risk of being removed by the state DOT because of a construction project. 

Advocates were able to work with state and local officials to change the plans and keep the trees. 

Andrew Colabella, a member of the Westport Representative Town Meeting, said the trees are a cultural and aesthetic part of the Sakura restaurant, and people all over the region come to look at it.  

 “When we saved these trees, it really put a lot of hope in people on how town government can get things done," said Colabella. 

The trees in front of Stop & Shop were also saved from being removed, according to Colabella.