Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Public Works

TO:	David L. Corliss, City Manager
FROM:	David P. Cronin, City Engineer
CC:	Chuck Soules, Mark Thiel, Nick Voss, Amy Miller, Casey Toomay, Diane Stoddard, Cynthia Wagner, Ed Mullins
Date:	November 21, 2013
RE:	2014 CDBG Sidewalk Gap Project

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program is accepting applications for 2014.  Over the last several years, the City has received $500,000 in CDBG funds to install approximately four miles of sidewalk.  For 2014, staff is recommending submitting an application for Gap Sidewalks.

Sidewalk Repair

In 2006, Public Works staff completed a city-wide sidewalk survey and developed a comprehensive inventory, identified gaps in the existing sidewalk and rated condition of the existing sidewalk.

In recent years, the City has made strides in closing gaps in existing sidewalks.  Attached is a map showing the areas of this project which includes 5,465 feet of missing sidewalk.  Neighborhood Associations have been contacted.

Staff is requesting authorization from the City Commission to apply for CDBG funding in the amount of $125,000 to fill in gap sidewalks in low-mod areas.  It is important to note that CDBG funds will be utilized to fill in gap sidewalks only where the abutting property owner meets the CDBG income criteria.

Action Requested

Authorize staff to submit an application to the CDBG Program for gap sidewalks in the amount of $125,000.