La Grange’s annual sidewalk replacement program will cost $97,800 this year — 30 percent more than last year — as construction costs continue to climb, the Village Board heard Monday, June 8.
The board approved a contract with M&J Asphalt Paving Company to perform the work under the 50/50 cost-sharing program, in which residents pay half the cost of replacing sidewalk sections adjacent to their homes.
The village budgeted $83,000 for the program and may need to amend the budget by $14,800 to cover the difference.
The increase reflects broader construction cost pressures affecting municipalities nationwide.
M&J Asphalt Paving Company of Cicero submitted the lowest of five bids received. The company has previously worked in La Grange and has proven to be a responsible bidder, officials said.
Director of Public Works Timothy O’Brien attributed the cost increase to general construction inflation, including higher concrete and fuel costs, as well as potential impacts from the village’s responsible bidders ordinance.
“Some of it’s just the general cost of construction nowadays with the current environment,” O’Brien said.
Trustee Beth Augustine expressed concern that similar cost increases may appear in other village projects this year “if things don’t change.”
The village expects to receive $30,000 in offsetting revenue from residents participating in the program.
President Mark Kuchler asked whether the village is moving toward an online system for residents to request sidewalk replacements.
O’Brien said the village is working toward a computerized work order system.