The proposed bill, General Assembly Proposed Bill No. 6423, seeks to amend title 12 of the general statutes to allow municipalities the authority to waive certain sidewalk construction requirements. This waiver would apply specifically to developments that exhibit limited pedestrian demand. In return for the waiver, developers would be required to make contributions to a municipal fund dedicated to the construction of pedestrian infrastructure in areas where sidewalks are deemed most necessary.
The intent of this legislation is to provide municipalities with greater flexibility in managing sidewalk construction requirements while ensuring that funds are allocated to improve pedestrian infrastructure in high-demand areas. This approach aims to balance development needs with community safety and accessibility, ultimately enhancing pedestrian pathways where they are most needed.