Upgrades to sidewalks, curbs, and gutters are in the forecast for Swift Current residents.

Passed in City council last night, residents would be on the hook for half the cost either at once or spread out over a 10-year span if replacements are needed.

Approval for projects has to come from the City and the Saskatchewan Municipal Board.

Property owners can petition to have the work not done in their area. If landowners representing 50 per cent of the assessed value of a collection of properties petition against work being done, the project won't be carried out.

Deputy Mayor Ryan Plewis said last night that costs would increase over time if projects are deferred.

The City says most of its 165 kilometres of sidewalk dates back to the 1950s through to the early 1970s, and sidewalks generally have a life span of 40 to 50 years.

A meter of work carries a frontage of $240 for the property owner. The municipality has two years to complete the job once approved by the Saskatchewan Municipal Board.