News Flash

With more people walking to work, walking for pleasure, or jogging for their health, the need for safe pedestrian walkways is a necessity.

In 1989, the City of Dubuque implemented a comprehensive and ongoing Sidewalk Inspection Program conducted by the Engineering Department. In addition to responding to citizen concerns over individual properties, approximately 10-12 miles of sidewalk are inspected annually by City staff. After the inspection, the abutting property owner is notified by certified mail of any defective conditions in the sidewalk discovered during the inspection and the date by which the repairs must be completed. A 60-day extension for the repair work may be granted.

The 2009 program will include sidewalk inspection on the following streets:
• Atlantic Street
• Auburn Street
• Bunker Hill Road from Green Street to Asbury
• Central Avenue from 11th to 4th
• Francis Street
• Finley Street from McCormick to Bunker Hill Road,
• Kaufmann Avenue, from Central to Kane
• North Grandview from Dodge to Delhi
• Rosedale from North Grandview to Asbury
• South Grandview from Dodge to Carmel Drive

Property owners in the 2009 Sidewalk Inspection Program will be notified of the route 30 days prior to the City inspection. Dubuque property owners are reminded of their responsibility to maintain the public sidewalk abutting their property free from any hazardous conditions; this includes driveway approaches and water stop boxes in the right-of-way. Due to the temporary nature of surface patching, it will not be allowed; though in some instances grinding of high points may be acceptable. Permits are required prior to repair and range from $10-$50 based on the extent of repair needed.
If the property owner fails to complete the required work within the allotted time, the City will have the work performed by contractors and the cost of the work will be assessed against the abutting property for collection in the same manner as a property tax.
Property owners with questions concerning the Sidewalk Inspection Program may contact the City of Dubuque Engineering Department at (563) 589-4270.

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