50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program

Public sidewalks help to create a safe space for walking, cycling, and community interaction.  A well-maintained sidewalk system can turn busy streets into a walkable, livable and friendly environment.  Sidewalks have shown to provided:

1. Safety and accessibility by separating pedestrians from moving vehicles.
2. Encourages physical activity by providing a smooth and safe path to follow.
3. Strengthening community bonds by allowing neighborhood connections.
4. Environmental impacts decrease the reliance on vehicles and can add visual appeal.
5. Economic value, walkable communities increase are viewed as more desirable.
6. Support child independence by providing opportunities for children to walk or ride to school.

Beginning in 2025, the City Commission established the 50/50 Sidewalk Program promoting the repair and replacement of public sidewalks in the public right-of-way.  New sidewalks will start to be installed in 2026.  A safe pedestrian sidewalk system is an essential component of our city. In accordance with Chapter 86 Streets, Sidewalks and Other Public Spaces of the Code of Ordinances, Article III Sidewalks, Section 86-69 requires property owners to maintain and repair public sidewalk adjacent to their property. 

The establishment of this program allows for 50/50 cost share between the property owner and the city for the replacement of sidewalk under the following situations:

1. Adjacent sidewalk square has a height difference of ½” or more
2. Sidewalk slabs have a large amount of surface spalling/chipping
3. Sidewalks with many cracks that result in rocking or movement
4. Sidewalks that pond water causing ice to form

Preference is given to sidewalks that are on routes to schools, otherwise requests are made on a first-come, first-serve basis unless a particular area is identified and until funding is exhausted.

The city will hire a contractor to remove the bad sidewalk squares and install new sidewalk squares in accordance with city regulations.

Once a request has been received, city staff will visit the property and determine which pieces of sidewalk need replacement and contact the owner regarding cost.  Payment needs to be received within 30 days of an invoice being sent or a three-year installment plan can be entered into with the city which is added to the winter tax bill for three years and will include 5% interest.

Contact the Code Enforcement Officer at 269.695.3844 ext. 12 or email jcullum@cityofbuchanan.com if you are interested in participating in the program or return the informational handout with your contact information.