Sidewalks serve an important function within the City. They provide a walking path to schools, businesses, and community events. They separate pedestrians from vehicular traffic improving safety, and they connect residents, making a neighborhood a community. Well maintained sidewalks improve the appearance of neighborhoods and increase property values.

However, without maintenance, sidewalks can impede these functions. Damaged sections limit access, especially for elderly and disabled citizens. Uneven surfaces and damaged concrete create trip and fall hazards and are impassible for strollers and wheelchairs. This in turn may cause pedestrians to literally take to the streets increasing safety issues.

Pursuant to Lancaster Codified Ordinance Sections 903.01 and 903.06 and the Ohio Revised Code, property owners are responsible for the sidewalks on and adjacent to their property. The City can and may issue a Notice of Violation to property owners who fail to maintain their sidewalk. Failing to abate a violation may result in civil and criminal penalties.

In order to encourage property owners to eliminate hazards and maintain sidewalks, the City of Lancaster is implementing a Sidewalk Repair Reimbursement Program that will provide cost reimbursement to property owners under two separate provisions:

1. Applicants shall be reimbursed by the City for those specific sections of sidewalks that have been identified by the City Engineer to have been damaged by roots growing from trees located in the public right of way, provided the eligible repairs are done in accordance with City standards/specifications. The City Engineer shall annually establish unit costs that are eligible for reimbursement and the applicant shall be reimbursed 100% at no more than the established unit costs. (No Maximum to this dollar amount.)

2. Applicants shall be reimbursed by the City for eligible repairs to sidewalks not damaged by roots growing from the trees located in the public right of way, provided the eligible repairs are done in accordance with City standards/specifications. The City Engineer shall annually establish unit costs that are eligible for reimbursement and the applicant shall be reimbursed 50% at no more than the established unit costs with a maximum of $2500.