Infested Ash Trees Coming Down Starting Monday

Beginning Monday, Aug. 20, the will begin removing ash trees infested with emerald ash borer on Ridgeland Avenue between Victoria Drive and 151st Street. 

Homer Tree Service will start cutting trees down at Victoria Drive and work north toward 151st Street. Portions of Ridgeland Avenue will be temporarily closed for short periods due to debris removal and necessary cleanup. The work is anticipated to be completed by week’s end, but may be extended, depending on weather conditions. 

For further information, please contact the Oak Forest Public Works Department at 708-535-4090.

Emerald Ash Borer infestations are not restricted to ash trees on city parkways, according to the city. The city bid the contracted tree removal work with the intent to assist residents with ash tree removals from their private properties.  Any questions about pricing should be directed to Homer Tree Care at 815-838-0320.

Some of the removed ash trees will be replaced next spring. The addition of $20,000 worth of trees will beautify  into "a new suburb" in some areas, said Public Works Assistant Director Rich Rinchich. 

pulled from public parkways due to infestation by the metallic green beetle. The ash trees account for roughly 24 percent of the city's urban forest in parkways.