Sidewalk Installation Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be any cost to property owners for sidewalk installation?
Yes, if the Town Board orders the installation of sidewalks, property owners must either pay for the installation privately or may defer the cost by having the Town manage the installation and adding the cost to their property tax bill. If added to the tax bill, the costs may be spread over a 5-year period.
Will I be paid for right-of-way that the Town needs to do these improvements?
No. If right-of-way is insufficient, the additional land must be donated by the adjacent land-owner. The Town may also pursue public sidewalk easements.
How long do I have to comply with my sidewalk installation?
The compliance date will be noted in a letter sent by the Building Department shortly after Town Board approval of the installation. Typically, the property owner has until August 31st to complete the work.
Can the Town recommend a private contractor that will do the work?
No, but we understand that sometimes it can be difficult to have a contractor respond to your phone calls or provide a quote. A list of contractors is on file at the Town's Engineering Department and can be found here. It is in your best interest to obtain multiple quotes and make sure the contractor you select is fully insured, can provide references, and is willing to sign a contract for the work.
What if I fail to install a sidewalk after I receive an official notice?
The Town of Amherst will arrange to have sidewalk installed by an independent contractor and the total cost will be added to your tax bill.
How expensive is it to have the Town install the sidewalk?
The true cost cannot be determined until the Town receives public quotes or bids to have the work completed. Typically, the cost of a new sidewalk can range from $6 to $8 per square foot ($160 per 4' x 5' block). This may be more expensive than if you were to complete it privately.
How do I pay the Town Sidewalk Contractor?
The cost of replacement must be assessed on your tax bill.
Can I pay it over a period of time?
Yes. The Town’s sidewalk assistance program is set up to allow owners who need financial assistance to spread payments over a 5-year period.
Are there any charges for this program?
If payment is spread over five years then a service charge of $150, along with an interest rate of 6% per year on the unpaid balance will be assessed and added to your tax bill.
When will my sidewalk installation be completed if I sign on with the Town?
No exact time frame can be given. It is dependent on the amount of applicants, the contractor, and the location of the installation. The Town will make every effort to install the sidewalk between September 1st and November 30th, weather permitting. If replacement is not completed during that year, new item prices will be awarded the following year and the owner will be billed accordingly.
Is there a guarantee on work performed by the Town Contractor?
Yes. A Town representative will inspect the work of the Town Contractor during and after replacement. If work does not meet Town standards, the Town can hold payment and reject work until acceptable to the Town. If the concrete fails within two (2) years, the Town has the option to have the sidewalk contractor replace it per the contract.
Can the Town Sidewalk Contractor repair or install new driveways, aprons, and private sidewalks?
This work cannot be performed under this contract. Although, the Engineering Department will notify the current Sidewalk Contractor that additional work is requested at the time of installation.
Will my property taxes increase due to these improvements?
Property taxes will not increase directly due to improvements to the street within the Town's right-of-way. If the Town installs the sidewalks, those costs may be applied to tax bills for affected properties.
What happens to mailboxes that are in the way of the proposed sidewalk?
Mailboxes must be relocated by the property owner or contractor as part of the installation project.
What happens to trees, shrubs or landscaping that are in the way of the proposed sidewalk?
If in the right-of-way, they must be moved to accommodate the sidewalk. If nearby trees have low-hanging branches, per Town Code, they must be trimmed to a height of 8' high above the new sidewalk.
Will I be required to maintain and clear snow on the public sidewalks?
Yes, according to the requirements of Chapters 83 and 151 of the Code of the Town of
Amherst (Property Maintenance)
What is Chapter 151 of the Town Code?
Section 151-60C – Sidewalks and driveways, all sidewalks, walkways, stairs, driveways, parking spaces and similar areas, shall be kept in a proper state of repair and maintained free from hazardous conditions.
How does the Town determine where sidewalk is to be installed?
Typically, the sidewalk installation locations are specifically requested by a petitioner who meets the criteria to request a sidewalk installation. Then, various Town departments review the request and prepare a report that is reviewed by the Town Sidewalk Technical Review Committee and the Town Board. | 
