The White Plains Common Council approved a new city ordinance on April 6 that changes how street surfaces are restored after construction or utility work. The measure, introduced by the Department of Public Works, aims to improve the condition and appearance of city streets.
Previously, city code did not require full resurfacing after street openings. This led to roads with multiple patched areas, which often resulted in uneven surfaces and faster deterioration. The new ordinance now requires anyone working in the street to resurface from curb to curb—or to existing pavement limits if there are no curbs—regardless of how many patches or excavations were made.
Those who do not comply with these requirements could face fines up to $1,000 for a first violation and up to $2,500 for subsequent violations. However, homeowners performing utility repairs or replacements on one- and two-family homes are exempt from these rules.
White Plains Mayor Justin Brasch said, “Our city sees a lot of construction and utility upgrade activity. These have wreaked havoc on our roadways. Our goal with this legislation is to ensure that those doing work in the street, whether it be a utility company or a construction project, respect the integrity of City streets and return them to the best condition possible.”
Common Council President Victoria Presser said, “Sometimes common sense has to be legislated. Many thanks to DPW for initiating this much-needed requirement for major contractors to thoroughly restore our streets, and for the sensible exemption for one and two-family homeowners conducting minor repairs.” Department of Public Works Commissioner Stefania Mignone added: “I would like to thank the Mayor and Common Council for their support of this ordinance. DPW has long recognized the problems created by work that requires a street opening. We are happy to have this new tool in our toolbox to improve the situation going forward.”
The ordinance is intended as an effort by local officials to maintain better road conditions across White Plains while balancing homeowner needs.
