Residents needing some sidewalk repairs may be able to get some help from the city of Emporia.
The city is publicizing its annual Hazardous Sidewalk Program, and City Engineer Jim Ubert says it’s a good way to get portions of sidewalks replaced.
Sidewalks are considered hazardous — and thus eligible for repairs under the program — if they have portions deemed unsafe because of “broken or missing pieces, unevenness or upheaval which causes a ½-inch or more difference in height between two adjoining portions of the sidewalk.” Sidewalks are also eligible if they have “an abrupt change in elevation.”
As Ubert mentioned, the program is a cost share, where residential owners pay 25 percent of the cost and commercial owners pay 50 percent of repairs. The city picks up the remaining amount in either case. Homeowners can also hire their own bonded contractors for work at set unit prices if approved. Replacing any connected sidewalks and handicapped-accessible ramps is done at no cost to the owner, and the city does not include those costs in the cost-share agreement.
Ubert says funding is limited with $100,000 available at the start of every year. Residents wanting more information about the Hazardous Sidewalk Program or would like to submit a request can email Jacob Riggs at jriggs@emporiaks.gov. Residents can also go through the city’s website at emporiaks.gov/sidewalk.
