Hundreds of people are flocking to a busy corner on West New York's commercial strip daily to see what they call the likeness of the Virgin Mary that has formed in a tree.

The tree, on the corner of 60th Street and Bergenline Avenue, bears the outline of the well-known image of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Barriers have been placed around the tree to keep people a short distance away, although some people are moved to touch the tree and then perform the sign of the Cross.

Most people stop for a few minutes and pray while others are taking pictures of the tree. People have left votive candles and flowers at the site.

"It's something special for the people of West New York," said Jose Alequin of West New York. "I think it's a message for the good people to take care of their families."

Eva Copantitla of West New York said she first noticed the image on July 10 around 3 p.m. She then told the mayor about it who allowed flowers to be placed at the base of the tree.

"Most of the people believe it's a miracle," she said, adding that she believed it would bring the people of West New York together.

"There's a lot of corruption going on in this town," said George Morene, West New York. "Hopefully this brings some kind of goodness into the town."

He added that he believes her apparition is always a miracle.

"Is it a miracle? Is it a sign? Is it an act of reason? Could be all of the above," said John Pacheco who lives in Pennsylvania but works for a catering company a few blocks over.