Sidewalk repairs improve accessibility and quality of life in Flint neighborhoods

FLINT, Mich. – Sidewalk repairs are underway in Flint neighborhoods, thanks to a $4 million ARPA allocation for maintenance of street trees in the public right-of-way and sidewalks impacted by these trees and their root systems.

The City of Flint is also replacing sidewalks, steps, and walkways around Flint City Hall to improve accessibility for residents and workers. All rebuilt walkways and entrances will be ADA compliant.

In April of this year, the Flint City Council approved Mayor Sheldon Neeley’s plan to conduct an assessment of all city sidewalks, develop a plan for future replacement, and get started with sidewalks that are impacted by street trees.

Sidewalk replacement will improve quality of life for Flint residents by removing tripping hazards created by broken or uneven sidewalk slabs, and trees that have become a danger to the sidewalk and cannot be salvaged.

“Making our community more walkable gives Flint residents the opportunity to get out and safely explore our city, both for recreation and to get where they need to go,” Mayor Neeley said. “Now our sidewalks will enhance our landscape and our neighborhoods.”

The City of Flint has contracted with Spaulding DeDecker for sidewalk assessment in the amount of $111,000, J&M Tree Service and Wonsey Tree Service for tree maintenance and removal in the amount of $1,725,000, and KMI Road Maintenance LLC for sidewalk paving in the amount of $1,500,000.

As of September 10, sidewalk paving is beginning in the 8th Ward, tree maintenance is beginning in the 5th Ward, and tree assessment is beginning in the 2nd Ward.