Snow removal from City Sidewalks

Court St during the last snow storm

Uncleared Curb cut on Main S

Keeping Main St sidewalks clear of SNOW AND ICE is in part thanks to the efforts of the Downtown Business District (DBD) and director Marie Kalita-Leary who has been reminding Main St property owners about their obligation to remove snow and ice from the sidewalk that fronts their buildings. Businesses and residents alike have 24 hours to remove snow, and provide clear safe passage on pubic sidewalks.  The DBD sends businesses a snow removal reminder in December before the snow season arrives and then emails reminders at the start of each new snow event. Those businesses not complying also receive a phone call from the DBD office, asking them to abide by the city's ordinances, with a reminder of the liabilities they could also face for non-compliance. The city's sidewalk Director Richard Romano is also an active partner in enforcement as only the city can issue the fines.

From News and Views DBD newsletter

 Ordinances related to sidewalk care are 262-16 through 262-21.
262-21B Every person owning land within the City limits upon or adjacent to which there is now, or may be, a sidewalk paved, constructed or worked shall keep such sidewalk, at all times, in a safe and convenient condition for the use of the public and shall forthwith repair all defects in said walk and remove therefrom all obstructions in any way endangering or impeding the public travel upon the same,
262-18B Notwithstanding the provisions of C.G.S. § 13a-149 or any other general statute or special act, the City shall not be liable to any person injured.

When you leave Main St. by foot using the sidewalks becomes a much more daunting affair. The cities elderly and disabled population, and parents with with young children and strollers, some of whom have no access to a car, really struggle when sidewalks are not cleared, and often put themselves in dangerous situations to avoid ill-cared for sidewalks as they go to and from work, school and shopping by foot, wheelchair and public transportation access points. There is an expectation that the city and state will provide clear safe public roads to drive on, it also seems reasonable to have the same expectation when it comes to public sidewalks.

 If you are having concerns about your ability to safely use the public sidewalks you should contact Middletown Public Works at 860-344-3408.