Right-of-Way Program

On January 13, 2010, the Delhi Township Board of Trustees passed a resolution creating a program designed to fix deteriorated or substandard sidewalks and driveway aprons along Township maintained roadways. The program will also deal with the trimming or removal of low hanging trees over residential sidewalks and roadways.

The initial cost for any work performed under the Right-of-Way Program will be fronted by the Township. Upon completion of the work performed under the program, the repair costs are to be paid for by the abutting property owner via a one-time payment or through assessment on the property owner's tax duplicate.

This program will address the serious problem stemming from bad sidewalks/driveway aprons and low hanging trees within Delhi Township right-of-ways. Once the Public Works Department has identified the road repair limits for a given contract, it will apply the same limits to the sidewalk/driveway apron repair and tree trimming/removal. In addition, right-of-way complaints received throughout the year will be added to the road rehabilitation project on a worst first scenario up to a total cost of $10,000.

Justifying the Need

The Public Works Department will justify the need for these repairs to the residents by explaining the criteria for condemning their sidewalk/driveway apron as well as any action needed to bring trees and/or sod areas into compliance, including necessary height adjustments. The Department will explain to affected residents that it will be including these repairs at the same time that the road work is performed.

This will reduce the amount of time that the neighborhood is disrupted by construction. It also provides the Township with a more complete job when the contract is finished.

Procedures

The procedures of the program are as follows:

  • Step 1: Identify the limits of the streets being rehabilitated. Right-of-way repair limits to be the same. Add complaints to the project list as mentioned
  • Step 2: Field inspection completed and condemnation reports written
  • Step 3: Notify property owners of condemned sidewalk/aprons and/or right-of-way issues. Notification will explain the time frame in which the resident has to respond. It will explain the public hearing procedure, as well as any financial obligations
  • Step 4: Public hearing number 1 outlines the repair needs and construction process
  • Step 5: Final determination of needed work
  • Step 6: Perform repair work
  • Step 7: Public hearing number 2 outlines the repayment and assessment procedures
  • Step 8: Billing

Complaints

To submit a complaint regarding a sidewalk/driveway apron that is in substandard condition, contact the Public Works Department.