Sidewalk Replacement Program

Maintaining Sidewalks:  A Shared Responsibility

In Macomb Township, the sidewalks aren't just pathways; they're vital arteries connecting our community. They facilitate safe pedestrian travel, promote a healthy lifestyle, and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of our neighborhoods. However, ensuring their longevity and safety requires a collaborative effort.

Why Sidewalk Maintenance Matters

Sidewalks endure constant wear and tear from foot traffic, weather elements, and vegetation growth. Over time, cracks, uneven surfaces, and other forms of damage can develop, posing risks to pedestrians and diminishing the visual appeal of our streets.

Resident Responsibility

As stewards of our community, each resident plays a crucial role in sidewalk upkeep. It's important to note that, according to Township Ordinance 16-25(d), the responsibility for maintaining and repairing the sidewalk in front of a property falls on the property owner. 

Replacement Program Guidelines (Information Guide)

Macomb Township split the township into six districts, and each year the Township will assess every segment of sidewalk for potential replacement based on certain criteria.  The process is as follows:

1. An Anderson, Eckstein, & Westrick, Inc. (AEW) inspector will walk all sidewalks in September and October and look for defects.
2. AEW will mark all flags of sidewalk that have a defect with a pink "X" and take a photo of what was marked.
3. The Township will go out for bid over the winter months using the square footage of sidewalks marked in the district and approve a concrete company to perform sidewalk replacement.
4. Property owners will be notified by letter via U.S. Mail in the beginning of April that explains:
   1. An estimated quantity and cost of replacement of sidewalk on your property.
   2. Details on the option to have the Township contractor replace the concrete, or to perform the work yourself.
   3. Details on how to pay for the concrete that is being replaced (if the choice is for the Township to replace).
   4. Contact information for any questions on the replacement cost: (586) 726-6695 or sidewalks@macomb-mi.gov.  
5. For concrete replacement, property owners will have two options:
   1. Take no longer than 90 days to complete sidewalk replacements on their own, pursuant to Township construction standards.
      1. Notification must be made to 586-726-6695 or sidewalks@macomb-mi.gov.
      2. A Building Permit must be pulled with the Township Building Department if over 100ft² (approx. 4 slabs) is being replaced.
      3. Must list sidewalk improvements and the number of flags to be replaced.
      4. Must include name, address, phone number, and email address.
      5. Once sidewalk has been replaced, call 586-726-6695 or email sidewalks@macomb-mi.gov to schedule a sidewalk inspection by a Township inspector. 
   2. Allow the Township to replace the concrete for the cost in the notification letter.
      1. The Township uses a private contractor to replace sidewalks throughout the district.
      2. The private contractor will give notice of when the sidewalk is going to be replaced, weather dependent.
      3. The private contractor will restore yards with topsoil and seed once concrete is cured.
6. Once sidewalk has been marked for replacement and a letter is sent to property owners, if the invoice is not paid by October 31 of the following calendar year (approximately 18 months), then the balance will be added to the winter tax roll.

Payment Options

Payment can be made at the Treasurer's Office via:

1. Cash
2. Check (Made out to "Macomb Township")
3. Credit card (Online Payment option is available)

If the invoice is not paid in full by October 31 of the following calendar year, the balance will be added to the winter tax roll on November 1.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Sidewalk Replacement Program Map