The Weekly Digest

What happened.The Public Works Board approved 11 parcels for sidewalk repair in 2026, targeting connections to municipal buildings and ADA-compliant routes between State and Union. The list includes North Fifth between Columbia and Warren, South Third near the Boys and Girls Club, and both sides of Fifth between State and Columbia. Two alternates were added in case bids come in under budget.

Why it matters.The board has $315,000 in sidewalk assessment revenue this year, up from $308,000 in 2025. With that budget, the board prioritizes the worst sidewalks and ADA compliance rather than replacing entire blocks at once. Tyler Kritzman, commissioner of public works, said once the city has been addressed, the board could revisit blocks for uniformity, but that is years away.

Where it’s headed.The board will prepare a public bid package in July. The spending requires Common Council approval before the work list is announced publicly.

What happened.All 12 property owners who applied for sidewalk improvement credits this year were approved. No applications were denied. Letters are being signed and mailed this week.

Where it’s headed.The credit approvals are included in the 2026 assessment file submitted to the county by July 1.

What happened.A resident told the board that Vosburgh's 2025 sidewalk work is cracking at Sixth and State, Sixth and Columbia, and other locations. The resident urged the board not to award future work to Vosburgh and asked who will oversee contractors daily for the 2026 work. Gary Purnhagen, the board chair, said the project manager and the team are accountable, but said daily on-site oversight is not standard practice.

Why it matters.The resident cited other recent contractor quality failures: Colarusso's Ferry Street Bridge sidewalks, poured in winter and now cracked, and DRI stair and stonework that had to be redone. The resident suggested Ithaca's model of hiring a dedicated city sidewalk employee might be cheaper and more accountable than contracting with a project manager.

Where it’s headed.The 2026 sidewalk work will go out for public bid in July. The board has not changed its oversight approach.

What happened.Gary asked whether veterans or firefighters who own multiple properties receive the sidewalk assessment exemption on all properties or only their primary residence. The question was referred to the city attorney. Tyler said the county's veterans list shows only two instances where a veteran owns both a residential property and a vacant lot, plus a few others with commercial or multifamily properties. The total revenue impact is small.

Where it’s headed.The board is awaiting a legal opinion. The law may need clarification or modification.