Tree Removal Project Along Naperville Road Gets Under Way This Week

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County and DuPage County Division of Transportation are partnering on a tree removal project along Naperville Road the week of Dec. 5. Work will be performed on Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 5 ‒ 6, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., weather permitting, according to a news release.

This shared effort consists of removing approximately 40 ‒ 50 dead or structurally unsound trees along Naperville Road between the Danada Equestrian Center entrance and Butterfield Road in Wheaton, according to a news release. Workers will also prune some trees and limbs overhanging Naperville Road to improve safety for motorists. By working together, the District and County will complete the project more efficiently and reduce the disruption to the public.

The project is just one example of an ongoing effort by DuPage County Chairman Dan Cronin and Forest Preserve District of DuPage County President Joe Cantore to capitalize on staff and resource efficiencies by both agencies in a collaborative, planned and innovative manner, according to a news release.

“Working together allows us to take advantage of staffing, technical expertise and equipment from both agencies,” said Forest Preserve District of DuPage County President Joe Cantore.

Recent collaboration in information technology provides a good example of the value of teamwork between the agencies. The sharing of GIS services, licensing and data center facilities is expected to save DuPage County taxpayers more than $175,000 per year. Other recent examples of cooperation include cooperative buying opportunities to increase buying power and reduce costs for trail-related project materials.

“This is a great example of our County’s Accountability, Consolidation and Transparency Initiative in action,” said DuPage County Board Chairman Dan Cronin.

“We’ve learned that several small shared-service projects can add up to big savings. So, whether it’s a tree removal project, or an information technology initiative, we are happy to share our expertise and split costs with the Forest Preserve District as a way to provide excellent government service for the lowest possible cost,” he said.

The two agencies continue to seek ways to work together to provide the best services and amenities to residents while remaining fiscally responsible. A wide variety of potential joint opportunities are being explored, including tree assessments, naturalized planting plans, mowing services, trail and paved-area maintenance, and sewer cleaning, according to a news release. Additional plans for cooperative buying opportunities and shared IT projects are also being considered.

“We remain committed to utilizing cost-saving partnerships to improve efficiencies and reduce costs for DuPage County taxpayers,” said Forest Preserve District Commissioner Jeff Redick, District 2.