Who is Responsible for Sidewalk Repair in Chicago?

Sidewalk repair in Chicago is primarily the responsibility of the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), which works with local aldermen to determine locations for repair. CDOT builds and maintains hundreds of miles of sidewalks each year through various programs, including the Shared Cost Sidewalk Program.

The Shared Cost Sidewalk Program

One of the main ways CDOT addresses sidewalk repair is through the Shared Cost Sidewalk Program, a popular voluntary program in which property owners share the cost of sidewalk repair with the City. This program allows residents to replace sidewalks at a much lower cost than if they were to hire a private contractor.

Other Sidewalk Repair Programs

In addition to the Shared Cost Sidewalk Program, CDOT has several other programs that address sidewalk repair, including:
Hazardous Repair Program: Fixes tripping risks on the city right-of-way
ADA Polling Place Access: Ensures accessibility at polling places
Underpass and Viaduct Repairs
Arterial and Residential Resurfacing
Works Progress Administration Streets Replacement Program

Prioritizing Sidewalk Repairs

CDOT prioritizes sidewalk repair projects based on condition assessments, duration of time in the 311 system, and coordinates by geographic area within wards to be efficient. All wards are serviced each year.

While CDOT is primarily responsible for sidewalk repair, the city recognizes that not every homeowner may choose to or be able to participate in the Shared Cost Sidewalk Program. In these cases, CDOT makes sidewalk repairs through several other programs that do not require any payment from adjacent property owners.