FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 15, 2026

Mayor Noble Announces Launch of Sidewalk Improvement Study

KINGSTON, NY – Mayor Steven T. Noble is pleased to announce that the City of Kingston has contracted with engineering firm CPL to complete a Sidewalk Improvement Study.

Mayor Noble said, “One of the features that makes Kingston special is the ability to walk to school, work, shopping, and dining areas. We have heard residents loud and clear when they tell us that improving our sidewalks will improve their quality of life. Through a new Sidewalk Improvement Study, we will work with consultants to find a feasible way to make sidewalks safer and easier for everyone to use. In our current code, each property owner is responsible for the maintenance of their sidewalk, but we know how onerous this can be. The goal of this study is to find affordable ways to pay for sidewalk repairs and improvements, focusing first on the areas that the community feels need the most urgent attention.”

As part of the study, sidewalks across the city will be comprehensively reviewed and rated based on their condition. The City will also look at what type of repairs are needed and will explore funding options to find the most cost-effective choices that meet City and State regulations.

Emily Flynn, Director of Heath & Wellness and Project Manager, said, “Sidewalks are the connective network of a neighborhood. We use them to reach work, school, food, and each other. When they’re safe and well-connected, more people choose to walk because it’s cheaper, healthier, and better for the climate. For people with disabilities, older adults, and those without cars, that network isn’t a convenience. It’s what makes full participation in public life possible.”

The consultant team, led by CPL, will conduct robust community engagement, including a Project Advisory Committee, citywide survey, public meetings, and outreach at community events, with multiple opportunities for residents to share their feedback. CPL is a multi-discipline firm based in Rochester and local offices in Poughkeepsie and Newburgh that has worked in and with Kingston on several engineering projects to date.

“We’re looking forward to working with the City and community to help identify the best way to fund improvements to its sidewalk system – a critical piece of maintaining Kingston’s walkability – as well as preserving the historic bluestone sections that make the City unique,” says Justin Steinbach, AICP, Planning Project Manager at CPL.

More information can be found at https://engagekingston.com/sidewalk-improvement-study. 

In addition to the city-wide 25 mph speed limit instituted in 2024, the City of Kingston has adopted a Safe

System Approach. Major infrastructure safety improvement projects include the Franklin Street Complete Streets, Broadway Streetscape, Broadway/Prince intersection, Henry Street Safe Routes to School, and the Pedestrian Safety Action Plan, among others. For more safety projects, visit https://engagekingston.com/.