The purpose of the annual Street Maintenance Program is to improve the integrity and service life of the streets. Over the years, the combination of heavy traffic, water (through cracks), and the aging of the asphalt has contributed to the deterioration of some streets in Palo Alto.
Through the sidewalk replacement program, the City of Palo Alto hires contractors to repair and replace damaged sidewalks, and to improve access for disabled people. The City attempts to obtain economical bid prices by restricting the work to designated areas each year.