Public sidewalks are installed on all City of La Crosse streets, in accordance with Municipal Code and the Green Complete Streets Ordinance (Sec. 40-3, 40-14).

Public sidewalks are recommended by the Comprehensive Plan, the citywide Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan, and the Safe Routes to School Plan.

Public sidewalks allow and encourage the safest and most equitable use of public Right-of-Way by various modes of transportation, including but not limited to walking, wheeling, and biking.  They serve a vital role in ADA compliance in the public Right-of-Way.  The City of La Crosse has committed to ADA compliance through its ADA Transition Plan.  Sidewalks also provide opportunity for short or local trips to be made by foot, bicycle, or mobility device, reducing vehicle miles travelled.  

Committee for Citizens with Disabilities

Costs

Installation of new and infill public sidewalk is paid for 100% by Capital Improvement Budget funds.  The City of La Crosse does not levy special assessments to property owners or residents for either new or replacement sidewalk.  Sidewalks do not adversely affect property assessment/value, or cause any increase in taxes.  If you would like to prioritize installation of sidewalk, please contact your Alderperson to request a new Capital Improvement Plan project.

Maintenance & Replacement

Public sidewalks in the City of La Crosse are inspected by the Engineering Department.  This only includes sidewalks in the public right-of-way, not any sidewalks on private property.  Public sidewalk areas may include the sidewalk proper, lead walks (also known as carriage walks), and pedestrian ramps at intersection corners or midblock locations.

To report a sidewalk for inspection based on condition (broken, raised, or sunken) or for ADA compliance, please enter a service request.

If a private owner wishes to facilitate replacement of any public sidewalk, they must comply with requirements for bonding and insurance.  Property owners or residents must have their private contractor apply for an Excavation Permit.

By Municipal Code, all grades, elevations, and cross-slopes of sidewalk shall be approved by the Engineering Department.  Please call at least 48 hours prior to ordering and/or pouring any new concrete sidewalk, to have forms inspected and approved.

Inspection & Enforcement

Property owners must keep sidewalks clear of obstructions.  This includes any encroaching bushes or overhanging tree limbs.  Additionally, private property, such as signs, awnings, and tables & chairs at commercial properties must have a valid Revocable Occupancy Permit.

Property owners must also keep sidewalks clear of snow and ice during the winter months.

For sidewalk information, by property, you can view the public Sidewalk and Curb Ramp Inventory map.  Please note that the map is subject to revision, and for specific details, you should contact the Engineering Department at 608.789.7505, or leave us online feedback.

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