Orange County Sidewalk Safety Program Gets Boost

Orange County Public Works is enhancing pedestrian safety by inspecting and maintaining more than 2,700 miles of sidewalks in unincorporated areas. The initiative ensures pathways connecting neighborhoods, schools, parks, and transit stops are safe and accessible.

County teams now integrate sidewalk evaluations into regular roadway resurfacing assessments. They walk streets, inspecting individual sidewalk panels for hazards like uneven surfaces, significant cracks, settlement, or damage from tree roots. The goal is to identify and fix issues before they cause trips or create accessibility barriers.

“People should be able to walk through their neighborhood, take their children to school or get to a bus stop without having to think about whether the sidewalk is safe to use,” said George Shupp, project manager with the Public Works Roads and Drainage Research Section.

The county completed 1,072 sidewalk repairs in the past year. Crews assess each damaged location to determine the best fix, which can range from grinding down uneven surfaces to fully replacing damaged sections.

Tree roots frequently damage sidewalks, but soil settlement, heavy vehicle use, utility work, weather, and age also contribute. To prioritize repairs, the county considers pedestrian traffic volume, proximity to school zones, and resident-reported issues. Repair projects are grouped geographically when possible to improve crew efficiency.

“A sidewalk condition that may appear relatively minor can have a much greater impact on someone using a wheelchair, walker or other mobility device,” Shupp explained. “Identifying hazards and making locations safe as quickly as practical helps reduce tripping risks and supports a safer and more accessible pedestrian network.”

Residents can report sidewalk hazards, such as uneven or cracked pavement, via the Orange County 311 mobile app or by calling 3-1-1 or 407-836-3111. These reports allow county staff to evaluate locations and schedule repairs.