Pelham making sidewalk damage list

If your sidewalk was damaged as the result of snow-plowing operations this winter, Town of Pelham wants to know.

In a release, the town said residents should notify it to ensure the sidewalk is on the list for repairs this spring.

Repairs are not carried out prior to spring unless a critical safety hazard has been created.

Pelham and its contractor of sidewalk plowing are compiling a list of owners who file a complaint about sidewalk plow damage. The town said the contractor notes restoration needs according to its own observations reports from its staff, as well.

The town expects the restoration list to be larger this year because of the numerous freeze/ thaw cycles over the winter.

“Typically, the frost sets around December, and once that ground is frozen, the plows don’t do much damage. With all the thawing and rain in between cold cycles, the ground has been unusually soft, and the areas near sidewalks are carved up easily with various equipment.”

The town said it and the contractor both budget for restoration in the spring from winter activities every year.

“Safety is always first, and trip hazards in the road allowance are identified and prioritized for repair.”

To submit property damage as part of the restoration process, contact public works administrative assistant Christine Tonon at ctonon@pelham.ca.