We’re excited to announce a new and improved Sidewalk Replacement Program for Indiana Borough residents! This program is different from the pilot program that we ran a few years ago, and we are proud to offer a more affordable and accessible option for our residents.

1. Is this the same as the previous program?

   No. This program provides more financial assistance to our residents, with qualified residents eligible for complete subsidies.

2. How does this differ from the previous program (by the numbers)?

   1. Sidewalk Assistance Program (2023, ARP)

      1. Funded by American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds through 2025.

      2. Replacements reimbursed at $7.50 / square foot

      3. Repairs reimbursed at $50 / pad

   2. Sidewalk Assistance Program (2025, PennDot MTF)

      1. Indiana Borough will:

         1. Subsidize 50% of sidewalk replacement costs, or up to $2,000, for all residents.

         2. Fully cover 100% of replacement costs for residents who:

            1. Receive SNAP benefits, or

            2. Qualify for the Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, including:

            3. Seniors age 65 and older

            4. Widows/widowers age 50 and older

            5. Adults with disabilities age 18 and older

            6. Income limits: $35,000/year for homeowners

         3. Subsidize 25% of sidewalk replacement costs, or up to $1,000, for all afflicted commercial properties.

3. How is this program funded?

   In 2024, we were awarded a grant from PennDot’s Multimodal Transportation Fund. With this grant money, we will be able to provide over half a million dollars’ worth of sidewalk replacements throughout Indiana Borough.

4. How does it work?

   Beginning in July 2025, residents in the old First and Fourth Wards will receive letters from the Code Department if their sidewalks are non-compliant. Residents must acknowledge that they received the notice and then they will be placed on the list for sidewalk repairs.

5. Can I use my own contractor or replace by myself?

   No. Because this is a grant-funded program, sidewalks will be replaced in phases. The Borough will put the projects out to bid, select the contractor and handle all invoices. Qualified residents will not pay anything for the replacement. Residents who do not qualify for full subsidies will be responsible for 50% of the replacement cost.

6. What if I don’t live in the First or Fourth Wards?

   Due to the nature of the project, and the need to bid the work out to responsible contractors, sidewalk inventories and replacements will occur in phases throughout the Borough. We have three years to utilize this funding, and plan on following up with the Second and Third Wards over the next two years.

7. Does this include sidewalk repairs?

   No. This program will replace full pads, but it will not address cracks. The old ARP Sidewalk Assistance has some remaining funds to help with minor sidewalk repairs.

8. Why do I have to replace my sidewalks?

   Sidewalk maintenance is a responsibility of the homeowner or business owner as outlined in the Borough Code, specifically Ch. 400 Streets and Sidewalks, Art. V Sidewalk Construction and Repair. The International Property Maintenance Code, PM 302.3 Sidewalks and Driveways also provides guidance on sidewalk maintenance. Sidewalk maintenance includes things like keeping sidewalks clear of grass clippings, debris, snow and ice, but also includes larger maintenance items like repairs and replacements to ensure that the sidewalks are safe and pedestrian-friendly!

9. Are businesses eligible for this program?

   Yes! Though the subsidy amounts are different than they are for homeowners, we have included assistance for business owners to participate in this program.

10. Who can I contact with questions?

    Please feel free to email us at contact-us@indianaboro.com or call the office at 724-465-6691.