Mexico Public Works Director Kensey Russell knows many of the city’s sidewalks are cracked or crumbling. Many do not meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

“Overall we probably rate between fair and poor,” he observed.

At Monday evenings regular meeting of the City Council, the board approved support for phase two of the Public Works Department’s first project aiming to improve the condition of Mexico’s sidewalks.

With phase one of the work on Muldrow Street nearing completion, the department hopes to tap into the state’s Transportation Alternative Program funds to extend sidewalk replacement work along Muldrow from the intersection with Quisenberry Street to Buchanan Street.

He expects the project to cost $194,000. Applications for TAP funds are accepted in January. Should the project receive approval for state money, the city’s share of the amount would be reduced to $48,500, with much of that applied to the 2021-2020 budget.

Russell told the council that money exists in the current budget to cover any spending on the project required before the next budget year. He explained that TAP grants only go to projects that have local government support through a Sponsor Funding Resolution.

The work is part of the city’s Sidewalk Transition Plan. Phase two of the Muldrow replacement project would put ADA-compliant sidewalks in place from Jackson to Buchanan streets, apart from where a railroad right of way interferes.

“We’re meeting ADA requirements going forward,” Russell said.

The department selected Muldrow for the first sidewalk project based on a number of factors, including condition of the pavement. Muldrow also connects schools, a park, shopping and the post office, making for higher foot traffic on its sidewalks.

Flowmaster -- a local construction firm -- is completing the work on phase one.

The vote was unanimous, with council member Steve Haag absent.