Union’s Mayor Talks About Streetscapes
The Township Committee and I are excited to announce that the second phase of the Streetscape Project has begun. After the successful completion of phase one that yielded great results, we have already seen an increase in foot traffic, which is essential in jump-starting Union Center and bringing in the higher caliber retailers that residents are looking for in the Center.
Following the completion of phase one last fall, which included a comprehensive overhaul of the sidewalks, curbs, lights, and crosswalks on the north side of the Special Improvement District, current retailers and property owners are reinvesting and new businesses are moving in. Last year Bon Chon, a Korean food restaurant, expanded to include Kung Fu Tea; Van Gogh’s Ear is currently venturing to open a bakery alongside their popular café, and Movement Mortgage and Sakura Teriyaki, a Japanese food that includes sushi have opened. Two new businesses will also be opening its doors soon in the center: DAVA, a Latin-infused restuarant, and a yoga center.
We expect that after phase two is completed, the southern side of Stuyvesant Ave. will also experience increased foot traffic and minimized vacancies.
This phase of the project will include the installation of new decorative street poles, benches, new sidewalk, bike stations and more trees and plants than phase one. Due to concerns expressed by business owners, sidewalks will not be closing for curement as during phase one as to not discourage foot traffic.
During construction, there will be on-street parking restrictions and temporary lane or roadway closures. Free parking will continue in the Municipal Lot on Stowe Street.
We can only imagine how the Special Improvement District will continue to grow once this project is finished in Fall 2018!
We are also extremely pleased to announce that construction will also begin on a portion of Springfield Avenue early July, from the intersection at Millburn Ave. to the intersection at Vauxhall Ave. The project will include the installation of more light-due to community concern of dim lighting discouraging foot traffic-new benches, trash receptacle and other additions, all chosen community businesses and residents. This venture is also expected to be completed this fall.
We apologize for any inconvenience experienced during construction, but we can’t wait for a more beautiful and business-friendly center following these projects!