Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in ORS § 371.605 to 371.660, the cost of construction of sidewalks under those sections shall be assessed in proportion to the front footage of the land or otherwise, as provided in those sections, to the owners of land abutting on the side of the street or road on which the sidewalks are constructed and fronting on such sidewalks. The cost of construction of all other improvements under those sections shall be assessed, in the manner provided in those sections, to the owners of land benefited by the improvement. [1955 c.773 § 12; 1971 c.327 § 6]