June 26th, 2023
The new program allocates $10 million to provide incentives to towns to install sidewalks along county roads during planned construction projects.
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Monroe County Executive Adam Bello today announced a new program that aims to encourage towns to add more sidewalks along county roads. The program will cover up to 50% of the installation costs and is funded with $10 million from the general fund unassigned fund balance. The County Legislature approved the plan during its meeting on June 13, 2023.
“Sidewalks play a pivotal role in creating a pedestrian-friendly environment, encouraging physical activity and foster a sense of community,” said County Executive Bello. “By offering towns up to 50% of the cost of sidewalk installations, we aim to make these crucial infrastructure improvements more affordable and attainable for our towns. Investing in sidewalks is an investment in the future of our county. By creating safe and accessible pedestrian networks, we foster a vibrant and inclusive community. This program aligns with our vision of a county that prioritizes the needs of its residents and actively promotes healthier and more sustainable lifestyles.”
Previously, the cost of adding sidewalks along county roads was fully covered by towns that requested they be added to a capital project.
“The newly launched sidewalk initiative is a long-overdue program that will bring tangible and ‘walkable’ results in Perinton and across our community. Re-sparked this year through a neighborhood petition, the program will help people of all backgrounds, including those with mobility challenges, to safely traverse Monroe County,” said County Legislator Sean Delehanty. “I look forward to seeing even more of our neighbors at local parks and thank County Executive Bello, Perinton Town Supervisor Ciaran Hanna, and all of our partners in government who made this possible.”
“Sidewalks provide mobility, access, and exercise for all in our community,” said County Legislator John Baynes. “I am proud to facilitate this sidewalk program as the county will for the first time contribute to sidewalk construction on its roads.”
As the county Department of Transportation identifies road projects appropriate for sidewalk installations, the cost of the installation will now be incorporated into the overall cost of the capital project. An intermunicipal agreement will be offered to the town that includes a partial county subsidy to offset the sidewalk’s cost.
