Sidewalk Replacement Program

Purpose:
The City of Fruita is supportive of providing and maintaining sidewalks to a level of service that considers the safety and quality of life for Fruita residents and visitors.

Background:
Section 12.04.030 of the Fruita Municipal Code states that the repair of any portion of a sidewalk “…be done by the owner of the lots or land adjacent to or abutting the improvement or repair”. This section of the Municipal Code was adopted by Ordinance 432, S2 in 1980. In order to assist residents in replacing sidewalks that are in poor condition, the Fruita City Council has allocated capital funds, when available, for a cost-sharing sidewalk replacement program.

Program Overview:
Property Owners within the Fruita City Limits may be eligible to participate in a cost-sharing sidewalk replacement program whereas the City will pay for a percentage of eligible sidewalk replacements and/or repairs. The percentage of eligible expenses to be paid by the City shall be determined on an annual basis by the City Council and is subject to available funding. For 2023, the Sidewalk Replacement Program was funded at $100,000 and the City will pay for up to 80% of the sidewalk repairs, which requires the Property Owner to only pay for 20% of the improvements.

Eligible Sidewalk Repairs & Replacements:
This program is intended to repair and/or replace sidewalks that are broken, spalling (presenting surface cracks and deterioration), or uneven. All sidewalks shall be located on public property or within public right-of-way. Driveways and/or sidewalks on private property are not eligible for this program. Priority of eligible sidewalk repairs will be given to those that present safety concerns in lieu of aesthetic improvements. Final determination of eligible sidewalks shall be at the sole discretion of the designated representative from the Public Works Department.

Program Procedures:

1. A sidewalk condition inventory was generated and is maintained by the City.  Each year, that inventory is reviewed and amended to reflect changes from year to year.  Repairs and replacements will be identified and prioritized based on this inventory. 
2. Once this year's program is full the City will solicit bids from licensed contractors to complete the repair or replacement work. 
3. Once the bid is received and approved, the City will mail out a letter specifying what the total price is and what the homeowner will be billed for.
4. The construction work will take place, usually in early fall.
5. Homeowners will be billed for the amount determined by the City project manager. 

Please note that a homeowner can request that their damaged sidewalk be added to the program at any time but whether or not that section is replaced is solely dependent on the priorities determined by the City.