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1. How is participation determined?

Residents who wish to be included in the 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program should fill out the application or call the Department of Public Works for an application. Annual funding for the program is limited and is on a first-come first-served basis. After the application is received, the sidewalk is inspected by Village staff to determine if it meets the criteria for participation. If funds are available and the sidewalk is eligible to be replaced, a bill will be sent to the homeowner.

50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Application (PDF)

2. What is the criteria for eligibility?

Sidewalk that has severe surface deterioration, has significant settlement or heaving, has cracking exceeding 1/2 inches horizontally, or has vertical displacement of greater than 3/4 inches, qualifies for the program. In addition, it is sometimes necessary to replace additional sidewalk squares in order to correct the problem. These squares would also be eligible for funding.

3. What is the homeowner's portion of the cost?

At this time, the homeowner's cost (depending on the size of the sidewalk square) is approximately $95 per square of sidewalk to be replaced. Because the Village is able to package all of the sidewalk replacement together and obtain bids for the work, the cost is significantly lower than it would be for an individual homeowner.

4. Who performs the work?

The 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program is advertised and competitive bids are obtained for the entire package. For this reason, all work done under this program must be performed by the contractor who has been awarded the project by the Village Council.

5. Can the contractor replace my driveway?

Replacement of private driveways is wholly the responsibility of the property owner. The contractors who bid on the Village's 50/50 Sidewalk Program usually perform smaller private projects as well as municipal projects and their phone number is made available upon request of the residents. The cost for this work must be negotiated like any other private contractual work. In addition, as with any other private work, permits are required by the Village and obtained in the Community Development Department at the Village Hall.

The Village always recommends that a homeowner receive at least three estimates for work prior to signing any contract for construction projects. The Village will assume no responsibility for coordinating, inspecting, or warranting private work which is performed by the contractor other than that provided through the permit process.

6. Can the contractor replace my apron or depress my curb?

While the Village does offer a 50/50 Apron Replacement and a 50/50 Curb Replacement Program on streets which are being resurfaced or reconstructed, there is no financial contribution by the Village at other times. Therefore, unless you have received a letter from the Village stating that these programs are being offered on your street, this work would follow the same guidelines as driveway replacement.

7. How does the Village handle unsafe sidewalk where the homeowner is not able or not willing to participate in this program?

Because of the liability associated with unsafe sidewalk conditions, the Village will grind or place an asphalt patch over any hazardous sidewalk condition of which they are made aware. The homeowner can then replace the sidewalk when financially able.

8. Who should I call if I have any questions?

The Department of Public Works can answer any questions about the program. If you would like an application, you can download a printable form or call us at (847) 705-5200.

50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Application (PDF)