HOUSTON – A Clear Lake homeowner says delays with Houston’s permitting process have stalled much-needed repairs to a sidewalk outside his home—and now he’s speaking out.
Joe Inabinette told KPRC 2 he’s been stuck in limbo for weeks, waiting for approval from the city so a contractor can begin work. He paid $5,000 to start the project but says the process has been anything but smooth.
“All we need to have is a basic replacement done,” Inabinette said.
The issue began in April when Inabinette received a notice from his homeowner’s association requiring him to fix the broken sidewalk. He submitted an application on April 16 and hired a contractor.
“We also had extensions filed that were accepted, so we’ve been operating under extension after extension for months now,” he said. “No response, and I can’t get anyone on the phone.”
Inabinette says the damaged sidewalk isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a safety hazard.
“What if somebody broke their neck out here? What if a kid busted his head open on one of these trees?” he said. “We’d be liable for that while we’re waiting on this to be done.”
He reached out to the KPRC 2 Helps You team, and reporter Re’Chelle Turner contacted Houston Public Works. A spokesperson confirmed that parts of the project had been approved, including structural and flood plan inspections. However, the final sign-off from the traffic department is still pending.
When asked if he felt like progress was finally being made, Inabinette said, “Yes, absolutely. I appreciate you guys because this is progress.”
Despite the frustrations, he’s hopeful the work will be completed soon.
“This is not hard,” he added. “We’re not putting on an on-ramp at 45. We’re not building a cathedral. We’re standing here on the set of the Hunger Games after six weeks of basically having the thing approved and nothing being done.”
A spokesperson for Public Works told KPRC 2 they are working closely with the traffic department to complete the final step in the permitting process.
Have a similar issue or concern? Contact the 2 Helps You team here.