Sidewalker Inspection Program
The City of Kingston has begun a proactive sidewalk infrastructure inspection program.
The objective of the Sidewalker inspection program is to develop a comprehensive sidewalk maintenance schedule by identifying and mapping broken pavement, cracks between slabs, raised manhole covers, and any other conditions that could make a surface dangerous to walk.
The Sidewalker works on a Windows based tablet computer with a GPS receiver, which is mounted on an adult size tricycle. The pen-tablet computer allows the observer to record sidewalk observations, or defects, found by the student inspector. Sidewalk observations can then be displayed on the city's GIS system for immediate mapping of priority repairs. When mounted on a tricycle, the Sidewalker can map over 10km's per day per unit.
The Sidewalker Inspection Program allows for more effective identification and prioritization of sidewalk deficiencies by City staff and will allow for the development of a "Planned Maintenance Program" for sidewalks, resulting in more efficient completion of work orders. The inspection program will reaffirm due diligence in this important initial phase of the City's Sidewalk Maintenance Program.
