*** 2014 Program Opens to New Applicants on January 1, 2014 ***
Frequently Asked Questions (Full FAQ here)
The Shared Cost Sidewalk Program is a voluntary program in which owner-occupants and the City of Chicago share the cost of replacing sidewalks.
The scope of a Shared Cost project includes the main walk, the courtesy walk (which runs perpendicular from the main sidewalk to the curb), and existing catwalks/landing steps (the small strip of concrete sometimes found adjacent to the curb). Owner-occupants of corner properties will continue to be charged for both the main (address side) sidewalk and the sidewalk on the non-address side of the property. CDOT will continue to build ADA-compliant corner ramps where applicable, with the city paying the entire cost of the ramps.
For 2014 the unit cost charged to homeowners will be $4 per square foot. Senior citizens and those with disabilities will continue to receive a 50 percent discount. The approximate cost to a homeowner of an average mid-block property will range from $600 to $1,200. Those prices are significantly below what a private contractor would charge. The City can offer that attractive price because of the volume of work we do.
What does the scope of work include?
The Shared Cost Sidewalk Program work includes replacing the main sidewalk in front of the property, as well as the courtesy walk (the smaller walkway that runs perpendicular to the main walk, from the main walk to the curb) and existing catwalks/landing steps (the small strip of concrete sometimes found parallel to the curb). Replacement is based on engineering considerations. The scope of the repair work will be determined by CDOT. Replacement of sidewalk found to be in good condition is not eligible for replacement at the Shared Cost Sidewalk Program price.
If you have any additional questions, please contact CDOT at 312-744-1746.