If a vault, coalhole or other space under a public sidewalk, or opening in a sidewalk, becomes hazardous to pedestrian traffic or to other public or private property, the commissioner of transportation may fill in and permanently seal the underground space and restore the sidewalk. If the property abutting the sidewalk is devoted to commercial, industrial or business use, the owner and person in possession of the property abutting the sidewalk shall be responsible for the cost of such work.
(Prior code § 34-44; Amend Coun. J. 12-11-91, p. 10832; Amend Coun. J. 5-4-94, p. 49718)