Wouldn't it be difficult to live without electricity? We live in a world where technology is constantly being innovated; so I think it would be. In Topeka, especially in the eastern part of the city, the buildings are old and so are the power lines that power them. These lines were designed based on the design of the infrastructures that were built in the same period. Many developments have occurred since then that have caused problems due to above ground power lines. The overall design was based on mapping out developments via easements and sidewalks. Tim Hrenchir, editor of the Topeka Capitol Journal, said that weather and tree branches are the cause of forty percent of power outages in the city; while another 8% is due to road accidents (Hrenchir). Where would you say the problem lies? A few years ago, a severe winter storm hit the Topeka area and destroyed several power lines, causing thousands of power outages. There was a major problem with restoring electricity due to frozen tree branches grounding power lines. Westar Energy hired a professional tree trimming contractor to remove trees from power lines so crews could go in and restore electricity to residential areas. Gina Penzig, a spokeswoman for Westar, said: Westar clears trees from areas near power lines to maintain safe and reliable electric service for its customers (Hrenchir). Of course, the residents were all in favor of restoring electricity; but according to Councilman John Alcala, the owners complained about what they considered irresponsible tree pruning by Wright Tree Service, Westar's contracted service. (Hrenchir) City council members eventually passed a resolution directing the city... middle of paper ... to dig up the land and install power lines would not only cost a lot of money, but according to Richard C. Pronto, there was also the potential risk from careless excavation. Another problem with the subway lines was repairing any problems that might occur. If there had been an underground explosion it would be difficult to pinpoint exactly where the explosion occurred. So, in conclusion, pruning and removal is the cheapest and easiest way to avoid power outages. This is evident because reinstalling underground lines would be less cost effective than the entire process of repairing, removing trees, and maintaining existing power lines. Works Cited Hrenchir Tim, “City Hopes to Strike Deal to Cut Trees.” Cjonline. The newspaper of the capital Topeka. 2013. Web. November 8, 2013. Kaste Martin, “If Power Lines Fall, Why Don't They Go Underground?” NPR. NP. February 1, 2012. Web. November 8. 2013.