Ridge Ave Restoration Underway

According to Councilman Curtis Jones, the construction on Ridge Avenue from Roxborough to Leverington Avenues, is an example of what can happen when legislators work together.

"The government works best when it works together," he said at the project's groundbreaking ceremony, in the parking lot of on Ridge Avenue, Wednesday. "The small town feel is an integral part of the fabric of a community."

The project aims to increase walkability on the Ridge Avenue corridor and hopefully improve pedestrian commerce by replacing the street's sidewalks and trees and creating a pocket park on Leverington Avenue. 

"The uniqueness of the diners and small, family-owned businesses is what makes this corridor great," Jones said.

The $2.2 million project was funded with help from U.S Congressman Chaka Fatath, state Rep. Pam DeLissio and Sen. Vincent Hughs as well as Councilman Jones.

"This will really rejuvenate the corridor," Fattah said, citing the success Mt. Airy had with a similiar project.

The Congressman said the support and importance of the project is highlighted in Jones' ability to earmark nearly half a million for the project in a time when the city's budget is very tight. 

The project is estimated to be complete by next summer and construction on the pocket park on Leverington could begin before winter or in the spring.

"We want to restore the corridor," Dale Kline, president of the said. "We want to invite more people to walk to all of our shops."