Council approves nine sidewalk‑infill projects from 2022 bond; one held in contingency

The Salem City Council on Oct. 27 approved a package of nine sidewalk‑infill projects recommended by the Bond Oversight Steering Committee and staff from the 2022 safety and livability bond. The projects were selected from more than 200 citizen requests, scored by criteria adopted by the council and steering committee, and taken to neighborhood associations for review.

Public‑works staff said the initial solicitation produced a top 20 list whose preliminary construction estimate exceeded $50 million, while the bond bucket for sidewalk infill is roughly $6 million. The oversight panel and staff prioritized a package of smaller‑cost projects so the funding can deliver sidewalks at more locations. A tenth project on Ladd Avenue Northeast was not included after neighborhood feedback and estimated right‑of‑way impacts; staff recommended holding its $450,000 estimate in contingency while the nine projects move toward design and construction.

Council approved the nine projects unanimously and directed staff to proceed with design, permitting and construction sequencing. Staff said they will return with regular updates as the projects proceed and if contingency funds become available to add other locations.

Evidence: Public Works presentation, Bond Oversight Steering Committee recommendation and unanimous council vote.