January 3, 2022 By

2021 Shared Cost Sidewalk Program Opened on Monday, January 11

The Shared Cost Sidewalk Program is a popular voluntary program in which property owners share the cost of sidewalk repair with the City. Thousands of Chicagoans have taken advantage of the low cost, exceptional value, and ease of participation. The 2021 Shared Cost Sidewalk Program will open to new applicants on January 11, 2021 from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The Shared Cost Sidewalk Program cost per square foot charged to property owners is well below what a private contractor would charge. Senior citizens and persons with disabilities may qualify to receive a 50 percent discount.

The scope of a Shared Cost Sidewalk Program project is limited to sidewalk within the public right-of way, and may include the main walk, the sidewalk thru a driveway, the existing courtesy walk (which runs perpendicular from the main sidewalk to the curb), and existing landing steps (the small strip of concrete sometimes found adjacent to the curb). Sidewalk on private property will only be included if needed for transition purposes; otherwise it is NOT eligible for replacement under the Shared Cost Sidewalk Program.

Applications will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis. The number of participants is based on availability of funds. The program typically reaches capacity quickly, so you are encouraged to apply early. Please note that if you applied for the program in previous years, you must apply again in 2021 if you wish to be considered for the 2021 program.

Applications will only be accepted through the City’s 311 system by calling 311, through the City’s service request website, or through the free CHI311 mobile app.

• Make sure to specify that you want to participate in the Shared Cost Sidewalk Program.
• If you currently do not have a courtesy walk or landing step and would like one installed, this should be mentioned at the time of request. Installation is subject to engineering recommendation.
• If you are interested in removal and replacement of the driveway apron, this should be mentioned at the time of request.
• You must give the property owner’s complete name, a contact phone number, email address if available, and the property’s complete address. Please note that Shared Cost Sidewalk Program applications that are missing any of this requested information may not be processed.

Applicants will be notified indicating whether they have been included into the 2021 Shared Cost Sidewalk Program. Applicants included in the program will receive a bill in the spring indicating the property owner amount due. Interested applicants can find answers to frequently asked questions HERE. Should you have any further questions, please contact CDOT at (312) 744-1746 or email cdotsharedcost@cityofchicago.org.

Filed Under: Community