Council authorizes bids for sidewalk, curb repairs near Norworth Park; ADA ramp work deferred

Narberth Borough Council voted June 5 to advertise for bids for a sidewalk restoration project covering sidewalks and curbs around Norworth Park, the municipal building, Haverford Avenue sections and nearby blocks.

Why it matters: Staff said the work replaces damaged curb and sidewalk that present tripping hazards and aligns with the borough’s prior curb/sidewalk inspection work; the project responds to resident complaints and the borough’s master parks plan recommendation to improve pedestrian access near parks and civic buildings.

Scope and exclusions Staff described the procurement as a repair and replacement project that will restore failed curb and sidewalk “as‑is” and install ADA‑compliant curb ramps where ramps are missing or incorrectly located. An alternate that would have upgraded a library‑front handicap ramp was removed from this package because of cost; staff suggested the library ramp be handled as part of a separate, more comprehensive front‑of‑library project.

Construction management and safety Council and staff agreed contractors must maintain pedestrian access during construction (clearly signed and protected alternate paths) so that people visiting the park and nearby community services can safely pass the work areas. Staff said the borough will require a clear pedestrian path and standard safety controls rather than leaving pedestrians exposed to roadway traffic.

Timing and funding Staff said the project will be bid quickly with a target to complete work by the end of the summer construction season. Funding comes from the borough capital budget; staff said the package is sized to the available appropriation and is not grant funded.

Council action Council moved to authorize advertisement for bids for the sidewalk restoration scope described; the motion passed and staff will return with a recommendation to award after procurement.