The Struggle to Increase Tree Cover in US Cities: Student Steel Bridge Competition

This research paper investigates the sociotechnical challenges of increasing urban tree canopy in U.S. cities, focusing on public health, environmental resilience, and social equity. Using Actor-Network Theory (ANT), it treats trees as active agents in complex urban networks involving government agencies, nonprofits, residents, businesses, and technology. By analyzing urban forestry initiatives through ANT, the study highlights how collaboration and adaptive strategies can address disparities in tree coverage across communities. Separately, for the technical report, our capstone team designed and built a steel bridge for the 2025 ASCE Student Steel Bridge Competition. Using Revit and RAM Elements, we optimized the design for strength, constructability, and aesthetics. Over a month we fabricated the entire bridge using a wide variety of tools and machinery. The report includes detailed drawings, design evolution, and compliance documentation with AISC and ASCE competition standards. Our team was successful in constructing the bridge and competing in the ASCE Regional Symposium at the end of March 2025.