Oak Bay’s deteriorating sidewalks and curbs are getting a check-up.
The plan to review the sidewalk situation is timely because the municipality placed in the runner-up position in a photo contest to find the “jankiest” sidewalk in the region.
A Saanich sidewalk came first but it was followed by a kind of staircase at the foot of a tree on Granite Street in Oak Bay.
The district has issued a request for proposals to assess the condition of its sidewalks and curbs and suggest remedial action where needed. This is not a tender call for repairs. The opportunity closes on Sept. 15.
Oak Bay aims to use the analysis to support a five-year remediation plan. “The sidewalks are generally in very poor condition,” the district said in its request for proposals.
Due to recent climate change fluctuations and the length of time since the previous assessment carried out in 2007, municipal staff are looking for strategies to improve the condition of its sidewalks and curbs.
Oak Bay does not have a sidewalk or curb inventory but assumes that 90 per cent of roads have curbs and gutters and 50 per cent of roads have sidewalks, the district said.
A consultant would be required to develop a sidewalk and curb inventory, including describing what kind of materials are in place, and rating their condition.
This work would include highlighting the locations and conditions of wheelchair ramps, and rate their accessibility.
The consultant would be required to develop a remediation plan. — Times Colonist
