Introduction

The City of Terre Haute 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Cost-Share Program is designed to assist homeowners in maintaining and improving sidewalks adjacent to their property. This program aims to enhance neighborhood safety, accessibility, and aesthetics by offering financial assistance for sidewalk repairs and replacements. This guiding document provides an overview of the program, eligibility criteria, application process, cost-sharing details, and other essential information.

Program Overview

The City of Terre Haute 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Cost-Share Program is a collaborative effort between the municipality and homeowners to ensure sidewalks are safe and accessible for all residents. Under this program, the cost of sidewalk repairs or replacements is shared between the homeowner and the municipality.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Property Ownership: The applicant must own the property adjacent to the sidewalk in need of repair or replacement.
  2. Sidewalk Condition: The sidewalk must rate a 4 or 5 on the Department of Engineering’s rating scale, as determined by a municipal inspection.
  3. Residential Property: The program is primarily for residential properties. Commercial properties may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  4. Compliance: The applicant must comply with all municipal codes and regulations.
  5. Service walks and drive approaches do not qualify for participation by the City of Terre Haute
  6. No new terrain sidewalks will be considered unless there is significant connectivity with existing sidewalks.
  7. Applicant is not eligible if they have received funding from any other source.

Application Process

  1. Inspection Request: Homeowners must request a sidewalk inspection from the Department of Engineering.
  2. Inspection: A municipal inspector will assess the condition of the sidewalk and determine if it qualifies for the program and assign it a rating based on the Engineering Department’s rating scale.
  3. Approval: If the sidewalk is approved for the program, the homeowner will receive an approval letter detailing the next steps.
  4. Cost Estimate: The municipality will provide a cost estimate for the sidewalk repair or replacement.
  5. Application Form: The home or business owner must submit the City of Terre Haute 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Cost-Share Program application form along with any required documentation.
  6. Agreement: Once the application is approved, the homeowner will enter into a cost-sharing agreement with the municipality. 

Cost-Sharing Details

The cost of sidewalk repair or replacement is shared between the municipality and the homeowner as follows:

  1. Municipal Contribution: The municipality will cover 50% of the total finished cost.
  2. Homeowner Contribution: The homeowner is responsible for the remaining 50% of the total finished cost.
  3. Payment Terms: Payment terms will be outlined in the cost-sharing agreement.

Project Implementation

  1. Contractor Selection: The municipality will, through a public bid opening, select a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor to perform sidewalk work on the City’s yearly sidewalk work order. Any accepted cost share application for that year will be included with this work order.
  2. Scheduling: The contractor will complete the work within the time limits specified in the work order agreement. This time limit is based on the amount of work included on the work order. The contractor will coordinate the work with the homeowner, with a minimum of 1 week’s notice.
  3. Completion: During all stages of the work, the municipal inspector will review the work to ensure that it meets all standards and specifications.
  4. Payment: The homeowner and the municipality will make payments as outlined in the cost-sharing agreement.

Maintenance and Responsibility

After the sidewalk is repaired or replaced, the homeowner is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk in good condition. Regular maintenance includes keeping the sidewalk free of debris, snow, and ice.  

Appeals and Disputes

Homeowners who disagree with the inspection results or the cost estimate can appeal the decision by submitting a written request to the Department of Engineering. The department will review the appeal and make a final determination.

Contact Information

For more information or assistance with the City of Terre Haute 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Cost-Share Program, please contact:

Bradley Utz

The City of Terre Haute Engineering Department
17 Harding Ave
Terre Haute, IN 47807

812-244-4944

[email protected] 

 

Conclusion

The City of Terre Haute 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Cost-Share Program is an excellent opportunity for homeowners to ensure their sidewalks are safe and well-maintained while sharing the financial burden with the municipality. By working together, we can enhance the overall quality and safety of our community's pedestrian infrastructure.

This guiding document should serve as a comprehensive resource for homeowners interested in participating in the Sidewalk Cost Share Program. For any additional questions or concerns, please reach out to the City of Terre Haute Department of Engineering.