Sidewalk Compliance: Residential VS. Commercial

[Lori Allen _]

Is the criteria for what is an acceptable sidewalk different for businesses than for residential property? While I was out and about in our city this week, I noticed that quite a few residential sidewalks were marked in orange. Thanks to the Observation Deck, I now know what the markings mean. However, I don't think that every resident does.

I noticed that many of the businesses along Detroit and Madison that had bad sidewalks were not marked. Also, the sidewalks abutting City Hall Annex, Celeste Park, Lakewood Fire Station #2, and the south side of Madison Park come to my mind as being in rather poor condition. My son even fell last fall on the sidewalk in front of City Hall Annex because of the holes and huge cracks. A friend of mine also fell there.

The streets that the city appears to be targeting are once again, middle and western Lakewood (I believe for the second or third year in a row). When is it going to be the eastern and far northern end's turn?

I am not trying to single anyone out, but I feel that treatment should be equal. It appears to me that the city too often comes down hard on residents and gives businesses leeway.

Just my opinion.