Stepping onto Solid Ground
Councilmembers Shannon Hardin and Michael
Stinziano announce funding for "Sidewalk Rescue," a sidewalk repair
program
[COLUMBUS-OH]
A solid foundation is vital to any community. Together, Columbus City
Councilmembers Shannon Hardin and Michael Stinziano dedicated $550,000 to
Sidewalk Rescue, a sidewalk repair reimbursement program.
"This
may seem small, but it is critical to the health of our community," said
Hardin. "The program serves more than one purpose. This investment
reinforces safety, supports families financially and beautifies our
neighborhoods."
The
program provides up to $1500 in grant funds to lower-income residential
property owners and neighborhood commercial revitalization district small
business owners to make repairs to their sidewalks.
"This
program allows constituents to improve the safety and walkability of their
neighborhoods and businesses," said Stinziano. "It is important we
work with residents to make Columbus more accessible for everyone."
If
the grant does not cover the entire cost of the repair, the property owner is
responsible for the remaining balance.
Jordan
Lookabaugh was the first grant recipient of the program.
"I
was really thankful to have the City provide the program," said Lookabaugh.
Lookabaugh
stated that he was cited for an issue that was there before he purchased the
house. However, he was still responsible for the repair.
"The
cost would have put my family in a bad position. I was thankful to get the
grant," he continued.
Applicants
must first receive a violation letter requiring the owner to repair the
sidewalk. Then, they must meet both the income and property requirements.
Eligible
households must have a total household income of 80% or less of the area median
income (AMI) as determined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD), with adjustments for household size.
Family
Members
Yearly Income (Gross)
One
$39,000
Two
$44,600
Three
$50,150
Four
$55,700
Five $60,200
Six $64,650
Seven
$69,100
Eight
$73,550
Additionally,
eligible properties are residential single-family owner occupied properties
within the city of Columbus corporate limits or small business enterprises
located within one of the cities six commercial neighborhood revitalization
districts. The small business enterprise must be the owner of the property and
have owned an occupied the property for at least 12 months prior to applying.
For
additional information or to apply for Sidewalk Rescue, visit: https://www.columbus.gov/publicservice/Sidewalk-Repair-Grant-Program/
or contact the 311 Call Center at 614-645-3111 or [email protected].
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