Competition for Space in the Urban Infrastructure

Abstract

What does the word infrastructure mean? Webster defines this as the underlying foundation or basic framework. In an urban area, the urban infrastructure refers to the underground water and waste water lines; gas, electrical and telephone lines; walks, curbs/gutters and roads that serve dwellings. Although my training and background is forestry, I am also the Assistant Director of Public Works for Park Ridge, Illinois. I prepared this article from the perspective of a public works director or city engineer. My day to day activities involve both forestry and public works projects, with trees and the infrastructure being an integral part of my daily routine. I have heard about the environmental benefits that trees provide to a community, 1) through the photosynthesis process, the leaves absorb carbon dioxide and provide us with oxygen, 2) the shade of trees cools our homes, 3) trees provide shelter from winds, 4) the roots help prevent soil erosion, 5) trees add value to property, 6) trees provide wildlife with shelter, 7) they provide food and beauty for us all to enjoy, 8) trees absorb dust and help to cleanse the air of particles that we would otherwise breathe, and 9) trees absorb noises that frequent an urban community. I am sure we would all agree that trees in an urban community are very beneficial. However, not everyone shares that viewpoint. Trees are often an obstruction to the infrastructure of a community. The roots of some trees buckle and crack sidewalks and driveways creating trip hazards to citizens of all ages, and liability exposure to municipalities. The roots of trees run along the soil surface occasionally sending up sucker sprouts in the middle of the resident's beautifully maintained yard. Surface roots also create trip hazards in yards. The roots that grow deep enter cracks or openings in the sewer lines both on city and private property causing damage including water backup into the resident's home. The roots of trees crack house foundations creating entrance ways for ground water to seep in, curbs buckle, pavement raises and cracks develop from tree roots growing underneath in the soil. Some trees drop leaves and small twigs throughout the growing season, a continuing nuisance to residents. Occasionally large limbs fall from trees without warning, causing property damage and personal injury. Trees obstruct roadways and the vision of motorists using the roadways. Low hanging branches interfere not onlywith vehicular travel but with pedestrian travel as well. Trees attract certain insects and pests that are a nuisance and problem for homeowners; for example, the boxelder bug, carpenter ants and termites. Large flock of starlings and other undesirable species of birds roost in trees creating a health hazard to our residents. Insect pests feeding on trees generate a sticky sap-like liquid that rains down and covers the sidewalk, homes, roads and vehicles. Trees disrupt electrical and telephone communications when their limbs come in contact with utility lines, a never ending maintenance problem. Foresters have been and still are on a collision course with city engineers. As the infrastructure in communities continues to age, replacement is necessary. As population in the community grows, the road system also must be expanded to accommodate the increasing number of vehicles. Directors of public works and city engineers must meet the needs of the community and replace the aging infrastructure, build new roads, resurface and repair existing pavement in a financially responsible way. It is the property owners who are paying for these improvements through their property taxes. The repairs of the infrastructure