A More Comprehensive Approach To Public Rights Of Way Management

Sidewalk Improvement Program

The city of Warrensburg, Missouri, previously operated a long-standing sidewalk and curb program. Under the program, residents were able to request the abutting sidewalk, curb and gutter, and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ramp to be replaced. The City would inspect the infrastructure and make plans for any improvements if deemed necessary. The City would assume all costs related to the ADA ramp and curb and gutter reconstruction, and the sidewalk portion would be cost-shared at a reasonable split. Unfortunately, the program was sparingly used, and when used, it was primarily by the same people who owned multiple properties throughout town (e.g., landlords). Essentially, it was a standalone, spot-repair program operating on a complaintdriven basis. After significant thought and consideration, and in consultation with City Council, the program was revamped. The main driver of this policy revision is recognizing that the need and desire for walkable, accessible and connected sidewalks in the community outpaces the rate at which the