Tree removal upsets Raleigh neighborhood

Raleigh, N.C. — Trees that stood for a century on private property in one Raleigh neighborhood had to come down, city officials say.

Crews cut trees in the Quail Hollow subdivision this week as required by law, so there could be easier access, in case of an emergency, to a sewer line that runs through the area.

Raleigh City Councilman Rodger Koopman, who represents the area, said the city is closely monitoring the project and making sure only trees that need to be cut get cut.

"When there is an emergency, we have to be able to get to it right away," Koopman said.

The project has been ongoing, and during the next 10 to 15 years, the city will continue cutting trees to get access to sewer lines across the city.

But residents in the Quail Hollow subdivision are upset.

"(Cutting the trees) devalues the value of your home," homeowner Wayne Sirois said. "This is my house. I spent $5,000 having it landscaped."

State law mandates municipalities to maintain sewer lines and keep them clean and free from obstruction. Failure to do so could mean fines for the city.