So I thought my elm tree needed pruning and invited some estimates

[StClone]

32. Friend No need to remove all the roots

Just the ones in a 3-foot diameter circle and 2-foot deep.



There are new disease resistant American Elm cultivars (for Dutch Elm Diseases DED https://extension.umn.edu/trees-and-shrubs/dutch-elm-disease-resistant-elm-trees ). Until recently, I was holding off judgment as the problem of this disease doesn't occur until somewhat mature (thick bark is needed for the beetle to live which transmits the disease). The new varieties may very well work out and I would not hesitate to recommend them now as a good track record seems to be building. Also, Slippery Elm may appeal to you-check it out.

Elms are definitely a treasured Great American tree. It is the tree Baltimore Orioles prefer for nesting.
I live in Central WI and it was attention to details for each tree species, site prep, root pruning (or not), stock selection and followup (watering, supports) etc. which resulted in my success rate. I am semi-retired now and work for the fun of it (not in landscaping-too physical).

I am with those who suggested Black Gum as it has great fall colors, tolerant and widely used. Katsura is pet favorite shade/ornamental of mine as it offers spring, summer, fall interest. It would work well in the situation you described. It should be available in nurseries near you.