Chicago Budget Fails to Include Snow Plowing Program

Disability rights advocates in Chicago are decrying the city’s omission of funding for a “Plow the Sidewalks” pilot program that was recommended in 2023.

As Quinn Myers explains in Block Club Chicago, a proposed pilot program to clear sidewalks of snow using city funds was unfunded in the 2025 budget.

“Currently, Chicago landlords can be fined up to $500 per day for not shoveling or plowing the sidewalk in front of their buildings. But sporadic reporting and enforcement often leads to stretches of sidewalk covered in snow and ice for days or longer,” Myers explains.

The proposed pilot program would have city crews clear sidewalks when more than 2 inches of snow accumulate in a 24-hour period. “The city would also plow sidewalks in front of vacant lots under the targeted approach, according to the report, and could use a combination of in-house services and contractors to clear snow and ice on sidewalks.”

Mayor Brandon Johnson has expressed continued support for the program, saying conversations around funding it are “ongoing.”