June 1, 2022 Public Works Recommends Amendments to Sidewalk Ordinance

The purpose of the amendments are to encourage creation of networks of sidewalks rather than the “sidewalks to nowhere” which result from the Ordinance as it currently stands.
The amendments provide more sidewalk options and establish a sidewalk fund and protocols for sidewalk projects/networks.

What affects us in GO?
The proposed amendments provide an option for owners to pay a fee in lieu of putting in a sidewalk as required by the October 2020 ordinance. The fee amount will be approximately the same as the cost of installing a sidewalk. These fees would go into an area fund dedicated to sidewalk projects.

Exceptions to an automatic approval for paying a fee in lieu of building a sidewalk would be:

  • lots on a block with a school
  • lots on a block with existing sidewalks
  • lots that make up more than 20% of a blockface
  • corner lots - this exception drew concern from commissioners as running counter to the desire to avoiding “sidewalks to nowhere”
Lots not eligible for an automatic fee in lieu of building a sidewalk may seek approval from “The Sidewalk Committee” who may approve if:

  • sidewalk construction is infeasible
  • sidewalk creates a safety problem
  • a sidewalk project has already been approved on the blockface
  • sidewalk would adversely impact a street project

What is the Timing?
There is a public comment period (May 20 - June 23) prior to presenting the amendments to City Council for adoption in July.
Feedback on the proposal may be submitted here.
We are suggesting that you make a copy of feedback you submit and send it to Abbie Kamin, City Council District C.
Possible adoption would come late summer with an effective date in October.

What happens to all the money collected as in lieu fees?


Proposed-Sidewalk-Ordinance-Amendment-Summary
Proposed-Sidewalk-Service-Area-Map-20220526
Chapter-40-Article-XXII-Draft-20220520
Posted in GOCC.