SOUTH OGDEN — A homeowner on Chimes View Drive is raising concerns about property damage and potential encroachment from South Ogden City's major road reconstruction project in her neighborhood. While homeowner Karin Petrovich states she "actually love[s] the construction project" and believes it will be a significant asset, she also reports being "fed up and frustrated" with its impacts on her property.
The city project on Chimes View Drive involves a "total tear-out and reconstruction of the right-of-way," according to South Ogden city manager Matt Dixon. This extensive work includes replacing sidewalks on both sides, curbs, gutters, park strips, and the road itself. Dixon explained that the project, which has been years in the making, aims to replace aging infrastructure and make the street more accessible and ADA-compliant for residents.
However, Petrovich, who purchased her home in South Ogden in 2022, is worried about the project's direct impact on her property. She believes the new sidewalk is encroaching on her land, stating that it "will likely go into my property" based on measurements she has taken. City Manager Dixon, however, expressed confidence that the sidewalk is being constructed on city property. He noted, "given that Ms. Petrovich is concerned, we said, ‘OK, great, let’s double-check and let’s be sure that we believe we are within the city's right of way.'"
Petrovich also reported that her property has sustained damage during construction. She stated that gashes appeared on her concrete wall in May, and a pre-existing crack in the wall has since deepened. She added that construction crews also damaged her car. Petrovich claimed the city has not fulfilled a promise to fix damages within 30 days. Dixon confirmed the city is working with the contractor's insurance to determine the next steps regarding these damages.
A further point of contention for Petrovich involves the elevation of a new sidewalk relative to her driveway. She stated that she was previously told the new sidewalk would be flush and match her existing driveway and sidewalk. However, she observed that it is "already four inches up." Petrovich voiced concerns that this mismatch in elevation could lead to flooding on her property and potentially into her home's first floor. Dixon clarified the city's understanding of sidewalk design, stating that "those sidewalks should be sloping towards the road and the runoff should follow." He added that if runoff comes off the sidewalk, it should be directed towards the road. Petrovich has requested that the city delay pouring concrete in front of her home until the correct sidewalk height can be resolved.
Dixon emphasized the city's commitment to finding solutions for residents. "We don’t enjoy when things don’t work out well, and it’s not comfortable for the residents, it’s not comfortable for us," he said, adding that the city is "trying to work hard to avoid those situations." He also urged residents with concerns to reach out to the city so that solutions can be sought if problems arise. Petrovich expressed hope that she will "at least get made whole" so she can "be done with this and move on and enjoy the new open road."