Ventura officials have started a new program to help residents pay for sidewalk repairs they want to be done ahead of the city's schedule. The Safe Sidewalks Program reimburses half the repair costs — up to $2,500 — on sidewalks fronting a resident's property, city officials said in a news release Monday. Some residents can receive a 75% match, up to $3,750, if they meet California Alternate Rates for Energy income qualifications. "Our goal is to provide a pathway for residents to fast-track their sidewalk repairs to improve accessibility and safety for everyone,” said Phil Nelson,...