Sidewalks Levy Information

 

On February 16, 2019, Bridgeport residents will have the opportunity to VOTE YES to continue their support of the City of Bridgeport Levy-Funded Projects. Over the next two months, we will publish six articles that will breakdown the levy to discuss how the monies are distributed. We hope citizens will continue to show their approval of the levy and the projects it supports and has supported in the past.

 

The Levy dates back 30+ years in Bridgeport and has provided, on average, an additional $1.5 million to our General Fund Budget each year. The monies will allow Bridgeport to continue services at the current and necessary level as years past. The proposed uses of Levy Funds are as follows:

 

A. To provide funds to maintain, operate, and improved the Bridgeport Parks & Recreation Department, $161,281 per year;

B. To provide funds to resurface existing city streets, $483,843 per year;

C. To provide funds to maintain and operate the Bridgeport Public Library, $241,922 per year;

D. To provide funds to construct, maintain, and repair sidewalks, $80,640 per year;

E. To provide funds for Public Safety – Police, Fire, and Emergency Services, $483,843 per year;

F. To provide funds for Storm Water Management, $161,281 per year.

 

The fourth article will feature the Bridgeport Sidewalks. The Levy will provide 5% of the funds toward constructing, maintaining, and repairing sidewalks for each of the next five years, for a total of $80,640 per year. 

 

Pedestrian safety is a high priority to the City of Bridgeport and city staff evaluates sidewalks on a regular basis. Sidewalks are a key component in allowing an option for non-motorized transportation. They are important to keep runners and walkers safe. The sidewalks in our city are also used to safely allow our children to walk to school every day.

 

Well-maintained sidewalks and curb ramps provide safe and desirable paths for pedestrians and others to enjoy neighborhoods, commercial areas, as well as other parts of our city. In Bridgeport, the property owner is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk abutting their property for snow removal. However, the City incurs the expense of repair, construction, and maintenance. That is all possible through the help of levy funds.

 

City staff also understands the importance of our residents need to stay active and Bridgeport Walks is a program that encourages residents to put on their walking shoes to improve their health and fitness levels. City sidewalks are an important part of this program and incorporate the walking program throughout our City.

 

It is the hope of the City that all residents will vote YES on February 16, 2019 in support of the levy that funds so many wonderful programs, departments, and daily necessities.