Trees cut down for Long Island road project in Seaford upsets residents

SEAFORD, L.I. (WABC) -- More than 100 oak trees have been cut down along a stretch of Seamans Neck Road in Seaford, leaving residents angry and confused.

Nassau County did not notify them before the cutting and there was no informational meeting, residents said.

The trees were cut down to accommodate work to replace the sidewalks along the road, which have been cracked and lifted by tree roots growing beneath them.

But many residents are complaining that removing the trees has ruined the look and feel of the residential neighborhood.

"It was like a chainsaw massacre. It's ridiculous, absolutely ridiculous," said Seaford resident Jack Ader. "We are so upset, I don't know how to put it into words."

Nassau County says the trees had to be removed because of what their roots have done to the sidewalks, pulling them up and creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the county said removing the trees is standard.

"Unfortunately, the painful decision of tree removal must be made when roots upend sidewalks and cause hazards for pedestrians. The County replants trees and makes every attempt to avoid removal," said Michael Martino, spokesperson for Nassau County Department of Public Works.

People there say they understand that, but they say the county never told them they were planning to remove the trees, that there was no communication with the community at all.

It's clear the sidewalks are a problem. But we asked the county why weren't the residents notified about the project. They didn't provide us with an answer.

They say the trees will be replaced. We asked them with what type of tree. They say the variety has not yet been determined.

"We'd like to see something happen so the beauty of this area, the landscape is restored," said one resident.

As for the tons of wood now being carted away, we asked the county if it would be sold.

A spokesman said no, but wouldn't tell us what exactly is going to be done with all of it.