Denver moves to spend $75M for sidewalk overhaul

Why it matters: The plan to overhaul more than 3,000 miles of city sidewalks is a major step toward fixing longstanding issues — like uneven surfaces and narrow paths — and ensures the city stays walkable for generations.

Zoom in: Two three-year contracts with Milender White Construction Company ($25 million) and SEMA Construction ($50 million) would be overseen by the city's Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI).

If approved, the contracts will help the city speed up its sidewalk improvement project, program director at DOTI Geneva Hooten said during Tuesday's city council committee meeting.

• Work under the contract could start as early as this year.

Reality check: The $75 million covers a construction feasibility review, labor and materials like concrete.

Between the lines: To pay for the contracts, the city expects to raise $97.5 million over the next three years by billing property owners.

• Most homeowners are already spending $150, split between two annual payments. Those bills were sent starting last December, Hooten said Tuesday.

What they're saying: Councilmember Darrell Watson noted the human impact the sidewalk improvements will have, saying it will make it easier for residents like his mother to enjoy a walk without fear of tripping.

By the numbers: New sidewalk construction can cost between $1 million and $2 million per mile, depending on multiple factors, DOTI spokesperson Nancy Kuhn told us.

• The city has 3,110 miles of sidewalks, with 1,235 miles requiring ADA compliance upgrades, and 355 additional miles needed to fill in gaps.

What's next: The contracts will be considered by the full Denver City Council.