Neighbors say they have the potential to fall. They're also afraid the raised plates on the sidewalk could cause people walking by to trip and really hurt themselves.

John Ross has been living in the community for about 20 years said he has complained multiple times to the city. But Ross said the only notification that he has received is that the tree would be added to a list of ones that might be taken down in about three to five years, which isn't soon enough for him.

"It might fall into the street," said Ross, "and this is a major thoroughfare here."

A spokesperson for the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation told News 12 that since the site is commercial property, it does not qualify for a repair through their Trees & Sidewalks program. As an alternative, the agency said property owners can apply for a tree work permit on its website and make the repairs through an independent contractor.