Sidewalks

The City Sidewalk Repair Program’s goal is to ensure sidewalks are safe for pedestrians and meet handicap requirements. The City Engineer is required by City Code to conduct regular inspections and take action to correct any deficiencies found. The Ottumwa City Council enacted the Sidewalk Repair Program in 1989.   Typical deficiencies found during inspection are gaps equal to one inch or more, parts missing to the full depth of the sidewalk and extensive spalling or cracking.  For the purpose of conducting the inspections, the City is divided into six sections.  This spring, the areas north of Golf Avenue will be inspected.  The Engineering Department inspects the sidewalks in one section each year, moving through all the sections in a six-year cycle.    When deficiencies are identified in the sidewalk, the property owner is sent a notice detailing their options for repairing or replacing of their sidewalk.  Residents who receive notification are reminded that they have 10 days to contact the City Engineering office about their plans for repair.   

Under City Code, the abutting property owner is responsible for the repair or replacement of sidewalks identified as defective.  The property owner may complete the specified repairs themselves or hire a contractor to perform the work.  According to the Code, if the owner fails to act to correct the deficiencies within 60 days, the City will have the work done and the cost will be assessed against the property.