Advocates of the Plow the Sidewalks program were asking for $1 million to start a pilot program in four areas of the city.
The Chicago City Council passed a budget that includes funding for a ‘Plow the Sidewalks’ pilot project, reports Quinn Myers in Block Club Chicago.
The $500,000 allocated to the project is roughly half of what advocates were asking for. Alderperson Daniel La Spata, who has been a strong supporter of the program, said the pilot will launch in December 2025 “and that the city will seek grants and philanthropic funding to supplement the $500,000.”
Earlier this month, disability rights advocates decried the mayor’s decision to omit the program from the proposed 2025 budget altogether. A May working group report recommended four test zones for the sidewalk-clearing program, which supporters say is essential to the mobility of residents with disabilities, people pushing strollers, and all pedestrians.
FULL STORY: City Council Passes 2025 Budget That Avoids Property Tax Hike
Chicago Budget Fails to Include Snow Plowing Program
Disability rights advocates say the “Plow the Sidewalks” program is a necessity for Chicagoans with limited mobility in winter months.
Denver to Shift Sidewalk Repair Work to City, Funded by Property Owners
The city is shifting from a piecemeal approach to sidewalk repairs that charged property owners with doing the work to a more streamlined, city-led process.
Chicago Approves Sidewalk Clearing Pilot
The new program will develop plans for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice to improve accessibility.
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
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Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.
‘Smart Surfaces’ Policy Guide Offers Advice for Building and Maintaining Urban Tree Canopies
Healthy, robust tree canopies can reduce the impacts of extreme heat and improve air quality.
New Jersey Lawsuit Targets Rent-Setting Algorithms
The state of New Jersey is taking legal action against landlords and companies that engage in what the state’s Attorney General alleges is illegal rent fixing.
Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.
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