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Senate passes Rogers bill on Municipal Sidewalk Maintenance

 

STATE HOUSE — The Senate today passed legislation (2025-S-0057) introduced by Minority Whip Senator Gordon E. Rogers (R-Dist. 21, Foster, Coventry, Scituate, West Greenwich) that would require that all maintenance of sidewalks along state highways, with the exception of snow and ice removal, be the responsibility of the state.

 

Currently, the Department of Transportation has authority over sidewalks and curbs along state highways, but the burden of maintenance for those sidewalks lies primarily with the municipalities in which they are encompassed. This legislation transfers the responsibility for maintenance and repairs of those sidewalks, with the exception for snow and ice removal, to state government.

 

Randy Rossi, executive director of The Rhode League of Cities and Towns, testified before the Senate Committee on Housing and Municipal Government in support of the measure, citing it as one of the legislative priorities for the League this year. He stated sidewalks are a crucial part of our infrastructure and highlighted the need for a smooth experience for pedestrian traffic, particularly for school children and the elderly. 

 

Senator Rogers, who is also the Director of Public Works for the Town of Foster, stated, “This bill is crucial for public safety and essential for the equitable and consistent upkeep of sidewalks on state roads across varied and disparate municipal budget constraints.”

 

“It makes sense that if a sidewalk is on a state road, it’s a state responsibility,” said Senator Rogers. “With this legislation, we can level the playing field for municipalities, preserve infrastructure investments, and enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility.”

 

The legislation now heads to the House, where Rep. Maryann Shallcross Smith (D-Dist. 46, Lincoln, Pawtucket) is sponsoring companion legislation (2025-H-5393). If enacted, the legislation would take effect upon passage.
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