Embedded Files
Jump to a question:
How would the sidewalk accessibility program work?
How would the sidewalk accessibility program work?
Step 1: A city or town applies to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation for state funding.
Step 2: The city or town adopts a local ordinance to build sidewalks that are ADA-compliant and incorporate materials that support community character, like machine-cut brick or partial brick sidewalks.
Step 3: The Massachusetts Department of Transportation trains the municipal employees who will carry out the local project.
Step 4: Sidewalks are repaired and replaced!
Would this program only benefit Boston and Cambridge? Who would be eligible?
Would this program only benefit Boston and Cambridge? Who would be eligible?
No! There are brick sidewalks in cities and towns across Massachusetts. This program is for everyone in the Commonwealth!
Any city or town with existing brick, or partial brick, sidewalks that are not in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 would be eligible to apply for the program.
How would the program be funded? Does this mean more taxes and fees?
How would the program be funded? Does this mean more taxes and fees?
No! By law, the Massachusetts lottery must pay out at least 45 percent of its revenues in prizes for players. Currently, the lottery pays players over 70 percent of its revenues, one of the highest payout rates among U.S. lotteries. By harnessing just 1 percent of lottery revenues for the sidewalk accessibility program, Massachusetts could fund over $65 million in sidewalk repairs across the Commonwealth annually.
Will this program force cities to replace all brick sidewalks? What if a city wants to keep traditional brick?
Will this program force cities to replace all brick sidewalks? What if a city wants to keep traditional brick?
Cities keep full control. The program only funds improvements where sidewalks are unsafe or out of ADA compliance.
Cities can choose any materials that meet ADA safety standards and preserve community character. Machine-cut brick is recommended because it is safer and more stable, but the final decision is local.
How much will cities be able to receive?
How much will cities be able to receive?
MassDOT will administer the program and funds. Funding award decisions will be based on available funds, the total number of applications received, and the program selection criteria created by MassDOT.
Why support accessible brick sidewalks for cities in Massachusetts?
Why support accessible brick sidewalks for cities in Massachusetts?
Safer sidewalks mean safer communities. When pedestrians are forced to stay at home or walk in the street due to dangerous, uneven sidewalks, cities become less vibrant and less welcoming. For many residents, including older adults, people with disabilities, parents with strollers, and anyone recovering from injury, an uneven brick sidewalk isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a barrier to daily life.
We believe in the preservation of Massachusetts’ historic character, while caring for our communities today. Our iconic brick sidewalks should be something everyone can enjoy, not something people fear navigating. When sidewalks are unsafe, people lose access to local shops, schools, parks, and connections with their neighbors.
Accessible brick sidewalks for cities in Massachusetts would provide funding for cities to update their brick sidewalks so that everyone can enjoy their function and charm. This isn’t just about repair. It’s about dignity, independence, and making sure every resident can move through their community safely and confidently. Making our sidewalks accessible protects what we love about our neighborhoods and ensures that no one is left behind.
Page updated
Report abuse