Cheyenne DDA Sidewalk 50-50 Improvement Grant Program
Fixing Sidewalks Is Good for Business (Not Just a City Code)
Nobody wants to pay for sidewalk repairs. Concrete work can feel like one of those thankless, expensive projects that never makes it to the top of your to-do list. And when you’re already juggling the costs of running a building or business, it’s easy to see sidewalk maintenance as just another code requirement.
But sidewalks are so much more than that. They’re the welcome mat to your business. They’re the “first impression” for anyone walking downtown. And when they’re well-kept, they’re one of the simplest ways to make downtown more vibrant, inviting, and successful for everyone.
Sidewalks Tell a Story
Think about it: if you’re strolling downtown and see cracked pavement, weeds poking through, or a chunk of concrete missing, what do you assume? Maybe that the building isn’t cared for. Maybe that the neighborhood has seen better days.
But when sidewalks are clean, smooth, and safe, people notice that too. It sends a signal that downtown Cheyenne is a place worth visiting, shopping, and investing in. And that’s a message every downtown property owner should want to send.
Safe Sidewalks = Happy Customers
This isn’t just about appearances. Broken or uneven sidewalks can be a real hazard. A bad trip can turn into more than an unpleasant afternoon. It can mean liability issues, increased insurance costs, unhappy visitors, and fewer people spending time near your building.
On the flip side, safe sidewalks make people want to visit. They’re more likely to stroll into shops, grab a coffee, or stop for dinner when the walking experience feels safe and enjoyable. Simply put: better sidewalks = better business.
The Cost Question (and Some Good News)
We get it: repairing sidewalks isn’t cheap. For many property owners, the price tag can feel overwhelming, and repairs often get pushed down the list until the problem gets bigger — and more expensive.
But the good news is that you don’t have to handle sidewalk repairs alone. The Cheyenne DDA, in partnership with the City, created the Sidewalk 50-50 Improvement Program, which splits eligible repair costs evenly.
Here's how it works: The property owner contacts the DDA. The DDA works with the City to confirm that the sidewalk is a high-priority repair. If it is, the City sources contractor bids, manages the work, and bills the DDA. All the property owner has to do is pay 50% (plus a 10% contingency) while the DDA and City handle the rest. It’s a partnership that makes tackling sidewalk projects manageable, so property owners aren’t left bearing the full cost.
(Note: We are aware of some sidewalk repair issues that involve utility contractors. If you have sidewalk concerns related to utility contractors or the City, please contact the 1% Construction Department directly at 307-637-6268, or contact the DDA to be connected).
Why It’s Worth It
Sidewalk repair is an investment, not just a repair bill. Every upgrade:
- Improves your property’s curb appeal
- Reduces liability risks
- Makes downtown more inviting for shoppers and visitors
- Helps attract tenants and businesses who want to be part of a thriving district
The best part? When one property owner makes improvements, it sparks momentum. Neighboring properties follow suit, and before long, the entire block feels renewed.
Let’s Build Downtown Together
Downtown works best when we work together. Yes, the City requires property owners throughout Cheyenne (not just downtown) to maintain adjacent sidewalks. But the bigger picture is this: better sidewalks mean a stronger, safer, more successful downtown for everyone.
So if your sidewalks are looking a little worse for wear, now’s the perfect time to take action. Let’s work together to make sure every step downtown is a good one.
Learn more about the DDA’s Sidewalk 50-50 Improvement Program and see if you qualify by contacting the DDA at 307-433-9730 or emailing smaes@cheyennecity.org. Act soon, limited funds available.