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Posted: Thu 8:24 PM, May 24, 2012
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Reporter: Courtney Everett Email

Potential sidewalk addition in Altoona

(WEAU) - It’s something people walk on everyday, sidewalks. The Altoona City Administrator says there is a reason the city may have to add them.

"Its generally the standard of the city that we reconstruct roads or put in the roads that sidewalks are required so that's the default position," said Mike Golat, City Administrator.

Neighbors says they agree with the road repairs, but have concerns if sidewalks are added besides higher taxes..

“It's a beautiful street, lots of trees and their going have to come in far enough to take out shrubs and the dip of this street here is a pretty steep hill," said Jeff Hafeman neighbor.

"We haven't talked to anyone that's wanted sidewalks so we're hoping that the city will listen to us and not put sidewalks in," said neighbor, Sarah Strahm.

The Mayor of Altoona says the project may be a year into the future but tonight's meeting has a purpose.

"To let the citizens weigh in or what they like, dislike this type of thing before we go to the trouble of actually designing the project,” said Altoona Mayor, Jack Blackburn.

"It would be challenging from an engineering perspective to put the sidewalks in because of some of the slope issues we have out there, some landscape issues, some of the elevations where the homes were built," said Golat.

One neighbor says adding sidewalks could be a hazard.

"You know it's the residence responsibility to take care of the sidewalks, so shoveling, ice, snow build up, there's just different factors that could play a safety hazard for that," said Jima Jahr, neighbor.

There also had a public hearing in regards to Daniels Avenue in Altoona. While there are sidewalks there already, the project is meant to repair the road and replace utilities. That project is estimated to be $350,000 and the council will assess property owners.

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