A large, 60-plus-year-old cottonwood along East Mercer Way was removed by P’n’D Logging and Tree Service on Tuesday.

The 4400 block of E. Mercer Way — popular biking route — remained closed from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday, while a crew of six cut the tree down in several stages.

The city of Mercer Island set up detour signs to the north and south of the tree removal site, although the bright orange markers didn’t deter all traffic. Many bicyclists attempted to ride through the barricades and by the large bucket truck and crane being used to remove the tree, said one crew member.

City Right-of-Way Arborist John Kenney said the tree is a “potential hazard” to motorists and has dropped limbs near the roadway at East Mercer Way.

The tree is nearing the end of its life cycle and starting to decline and fall apart, he said of the native Washington tree.

The removal will cost about $15,000, he said, adding that the city removes about 40 trees each year at a cost of approximately $70,000.

Intermittent delays may also occur between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 4.

For more information, call 275-7825 or e-mail john.kenney@mercergov.org.