Senate passes bill shifting sidewalk repair responsibility to state for highways

PROVIDENCE — The Rhode Island Senate on March 11 passed S-57, an act that transfers responsibility for maintenance and repairs of sidewalks alongside state highways to the state Department of Transportation, while excluding snow and ice removal.

Senator Rogers, sponsor of S-57, told colleagues the bill “corrects a long standing issue with maintenance and repairs of sidewalks adjacent to state highways in many of our towns.” He said the measure moves sidewalk responsibility to the state, noting the change does not cover snow and ice removal and that the League of Cities and Towns had made the measure a top priority.

“With that, I move passage,” Rogers said; the motion was moved, seconded and the clerk recorded 36 affirmative votes as the item passed.

Supporters emphasized the bill responds to municipal concerns about inconsistent maintenance along state corridors. Rogers said the Legislature passed a similar statute in the previous session and that this year’s version reflects municipal priorities and hopes for approval in the House.

The bill now moves to the House for consideration. No recorded opposing votes or amendments were noted on the Senate floor during consideration.

The Senate recessed after routine announcements and committee scheduling; committees expected to consider related transportation and municipal matters will meet in the coming days.