Greencastle offers 50/50 sidewalk improvement program

For property owners who would like a sidewalk repaired, replaced or reconstructed within the City of Greencastle, yet know the city has little in its coffers for such projects, there is an alternative.

The City of Greencastle Sidewalk Improvement Program is designed to encourage such reconstruction, repair or replacement of residential sidewalks, Public Works Commissioner Brad Phillips and City Attorney Laurie Hardwick have announced.

Under the program, anyone may apply to have a section of existing sidewalk repaired or replaced and must agree to pay half of the cost to update a sidewalk, while the city pays the other half.

If you live in a neighborhood where the sidewalks are in great need of replacement, it could be a project among neighbors to improve quality of life and increase property values in your corner of the city.

An updated sidewalk also provides safe passage to children going to or coming from school, makes taking a walk a pleasant experience.

The cost of a square foot of sidewalk is estimated to be $7. However, topography, tree roots or Americans with Disabilities Act (AD) requirements may increase costs. In addition, the section of sidewalk must be 75 square feet in size (basically three squares) to qualify.

Applications for the Sidewalk Improvement Program must be submitted to the Greencastle Department of Public Works no later than May 14.

For additional information and for an application, persons may go to www.cityofgreencastle.com or stop by the Greencastle Department of Public Works at the intersection of North College and Shadowlawn avenues or visit City Hall.

Questions may be directed to City Department of Public Works Commissioner Brad Phillips (653-3391) or bphillips@cityofgreencastle.com or to City Attorney Laurie Hardwick (655-2301) or lrhardwick@cityofgreencastle.com.