City of Hudson to charge homeowners sidewalk fee

HUDSON (NEWS10) - The City of Hudson has officially begun its project to revamp the city's infrastructure, including significant repairs to sidewalks to ensure that streets meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.

The city has decided to levy a fee on property owners to fund the maintenance of sidewalks and ensure ADA compliance. "Before the law was passed last year, all issues regarding sidewalks were up to the building owner," explained Gary Purnhagen, Chairman of the Hudson City Public Works Board.

Purnhagen says homeowners will still need to handle snow and ice removal. "According to the law passed in 2023, property owners will be charged an annual maintenance fee ranging from $50 to $200, based on the city's assessment," he added.

"The most efficient way to address the necessary work is through the city," Purnhagen continued, "is by handling the projects collectively, we can reduce costs significantly. For instance, a new sidewalk would cost homeowners about $15 per square foot, but it will be much cheaper through the city's initiative."

On Monday, the mayor signed a contract with local engineering firm Crawford and Associates to begin the work.

Dominic Merante, the Program Coordinator at the Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley and who is visually impaired, expressed relief at the city's plans, "we had people with walkers and wheelchairs using the streets because the sidewalks weren't safe". Merante said. "The prospect of Hudson being brought up to ADA standards is welcome news. It's been an ongoing issue for a very long time, and I'm glad it's being addressed now. We have such a beautiful city; it needs to be walkable for everyone, especially those with mobility needs."

City officials told News10 that fee collection will not start until 2025. Residents are encouraged to voice their concerns and feedback at the Board of Public Works meetings, which take place on the last Thursday of every month.