Title
A Resolution approving the implementation of a Residential Sidewalk Restoration Program. (Continued from the October 14, 2014 City Commission Meeting).
Department Head Recommendation
Approval.
Brief History
The objective of this program is to restore sidewalks in the residential neighborhoods of the City.
On September 23rd, 2014, the City Commission approved the 2014-2015 budget including two million dollars for a sidewalk restoration project.
On October 14th, 2014, the City Commission directed staff to further evaluate the probable estimated cost to repair all residential sidewalks including sidewalks damaged by causes other than City tree roots. Subsequently, staff with assistance from Stantec Engineering, reevaluated the sidewalk conditions and the expected cost of repair. Based on the engineering survey conducted in 2012 and the most recent re-evaluation it is expected that the current approved budget of 2 million dollars is adequate to complete repairs of all residential sidewalks Citywide.
Overview and Need: Throughout the residential neighborhoods of the City, numerous sections of sidewalks may be in need of repair or replacement. The needs have been estimated to include more than 250,000 square feet of sidewalk restoration or repair at a cost of approximately 2 million dollars. In the past twenty years, there has not been an initiative or funding to address this issue on a Citywide basis.
The existing City Code Section 58-80 requires that sidewalks be maintained by the abutting property owners. However, it is estimated that approximately 2/3rds of the damaged sidewalks have deteriorated due to pressures caused by City tree roots. This program would utilize City funds to repair all of the damaged residential sidewalks, on a one time catch-up basis. Following this program, homeowners would be reminded of the existing code and their responsibility to continue to maintain the sidewalks abutting the properties and public works will reinstitute a consistent program to fairly administer the City sidewalk code.
The proposed Residential Sidewalk Restoration Program will restore uneven and broken sidewalks that do not conform to the specific criteria as outlined below. The implementation of this program includes the utilization of up to two contractors with expertise in sidewalk and concrete construction. One firm, Metro Express, is currently under contract with the City and has been providing, on a limited basis, these types of services. Metro Express would be used to begin construction of the sidewalk repairs and replacements. Also, the City may procure the services of an additional contractor to provide sidewalk replacement and repair services. Having two firms on board could increase the flexibility to address multiple needs simultaneously.
Repair and Replacement Criteria: The following criteria are intended to serve as general guidelines to indicate when sidewalks are eligible for repair or replacement. The final determination for sidewalk repair and replacement shall be made by the Public Works Department Director or designee and the Public Works Department will continue to make temporary repairs as deemed appropriate.
Vertical displacement- Sidewalks averaging more than one half inch in vertical displacement between sections.
Cracking- Sidewalk sections with cracks greater than ½ inch in width and 3 feet in length.
Broken- Sidewalk sections that are broken into three or more pieces.
Deteriorated- Sidewalk sections with 50 percent or more of the surface deteriorated.