Sidewalk Repair Program

The City of Milford recently mailed sidewalk repair invoices to select homeowners reflecting today’s increased costs for materials and labor.  The City, however, will honor the initial estimate, and updated mailed invoices will reflect the cost reduction. We truly apologize for the inconvenience and we thank you for your commitment to a safe, walkable, and pedestrian-friendly city.

In an effort to improve the walkability and quality of city sidewalks, the City has undertaken a program to identify deficient sidewalks and notify property owners of required repairs.  In accordance with City Code §197-7, Conditions Requiring Repair or Removal and Replacement of Sidewalks, the City repaired deficient sidewalks in the Spring of 2023.  The below map was updated as construction dates were scheduled.

To minimize the financial impact, repairs were combined with all others and completed at a significantly lower cost.  Below are the payment options available to all impacted property owners:

• Option A – Prompt Payment Discount: Pay the full amount by October 23, 2023 and receive a 15% discount for a reduced price.  Payments can be mailed to 119 S. Walnut St., Milford, DE 19963 or you may pay in person at our drive-thru window by cash, check, or credit card. Please note that if you choose this option and you fail to make the discounted payment by the specified date, your discount will be forfeited and the City will automatically enroll you in Option B.
• Option B – Payment Plan (default option): Pay your total cost in 60 equal consecutive monthly installments with no interest.  The installment amount will be added to your monthly utility account. Please note that your property will be subject to a lien for any unpaid portion of the repair cost.
• Option C – Low or Very Low Income Discount: Property owners who reside in the subject property and meet HUD income guidelines for either low or very low income may qualify for an additional discount.  Apply here.  A copy of your 2022 Federal Income Tax Return must be submitted with your application to the City’s Customer Service Department by Monday, October 23, 2023.

Here are some FAQs regarding the Sidewalk Repair Program:

Can I complete the repairs myself?

Yes, but you MUST notify the City Engineer in writing within 30 days of receipt of the letter, a sidewalk permit must be obtained and work must be completed within 90 days of receipt of the letter. Should you fail to perform either of these actions, the work will be completed through the City’s contract at the rates provided, and billed to the property owner. 

What if I already completed my sidewalk repairs?

If you previously received a notice and the work has been completed you must contact the City Engineer for an inspection, regardless of previous contact.

I received a letter and do not believe my sidewalk needs repaired.  What should I do?

If you believe you have received the letter in error or that the sidewalk listed does not require repair, you must contact the City Engineer, in writing, within 30 days of receipt of the letter. The City Engineer will schedule a time to meet with you on site to review the issue(s) and provide a second opinion. If after having a second opinion you would like to appeal the notice you may do so through the Board of Appeals. Please submit an appeal request in writing through the City Manager’s office at City Hall, 201 S. Walnut Street, Milford, DE 19963.

How do I contact the City Engineer?

James Puddicombe
Email: jpuddicombe@milford-de.gov
By Mail: ATTN: City Engineer
180 Vickers Drive
Milford, DE 19963
Ph: 302-422-1110 x 1108
Alternate Ph: 302-422-1095