Across the U.S. and around the world, cities are recognizing that safe, accessible sidewalks are essential and not just optional. These examples helped shape our vision for Massachusetts.
Around the US
Many states and municipalities are acknowledging the dangers of inaccessible sidewalks, but can be slow to act on it.
Private Enforcement Model (Used in ~77% of U.S. Cities)
In most U.S. cities, homeowners (not the city) are responsible for repairing the sidewalks in front of their property. This system leads to huge inequities as repairs are expensive, enforcement is inconsistent, and dangerous sidewalks can go unaddressed for years.
Los Angeles & Denver: Sidewalks as a Public Responsibility
Some cities treat sidewalks as public infrastructure, just like roads. Los Angeles and Denver fund sidewalk maintenance centrally, easing the burden on homeowners and ensuring repairs happen when and where they’re needed.
New York City's Hybrid System
New York inspects sidewalks, issues violations, and gives homeowners 75 days to fix hazards.
If repairs aren’t made, the city steps in, completes the work, and bills the property owner.
Dumbo’s Belgian Block Sidewalks: Beauty vs. Accessibility
Brooklyn’s iconic Belgian Block sidewalks are historic, but dangerously uneven.
The estimated $100 million project should be complete next year, but has hit roadblocks from passionate community groups eager to preserve the historical character of the neighborhood.
Colorado’s $85 Million ADA Investment
Colorado is investing $85 million to bring all curb ramps into ADA compliance, starting with the areas of greatest need.
This “worst-first” approach shows how states can systematically advance accessibility with dedicated funding.
Maryland’s Sidewalk Data Collaboration
Maryland has created the Maryland Sidewalk Data Collaboration to get feedback from its counties and municipalities to record their sidewalk data through a user-friendly interface and determine which areas are in greatest need of support.
California’s Complete Streets Framework
Similar to Massachusetts' Complete Streets program, California encourages cities to design streets for everyone: pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair users, and drivers.
This approach treats sidewalks as essential public spaces, not just leftover infrastructure.
Around the World
Other countries have a variety of systems to fix their inaccessible sidewalks that we can learn from.
Canada
Canada’s Accessible Canada Act and Ontario’s AODA require cities to follow detailed sidewalk and curb ramp design standards, with enforcement through human rights tribunals.
United Kingdom
UK cities follow the Equality Act 2010 and use national guidance from the Department for Transport, including standardized tactile paving patterns and clear design rules.
Governance Models (EU/Canada/UK comparison)
Some countries (like Japan and parts of the EU) use detailed national design standards, while others (like the UK and Canada) rely on civil rights law, giving individuals stronger enforcement tools.
Japan and Northern Europe
Japan uses a national tactile paving system to guide pedestrians safely. Dutch and Danish “continuous sidewalks” keep sidewalks level across driveways, making walking smoother and safer.
Winter Maintenance (Canada/UK/Australia)
Countries like Canada treat winter sidewalk maintenance as an accessibility issue, and cities in the UK and Australia require temporary work zones to remain accessible year-round.