Change is happening daily in Norristown. However, most of us never notice the changes because we focus on our daily routines and often overlook what's happening. Some projects can't be ignored, especially if you travel in Norristown. What most of us are seeing is "traffic improvements." Let's look deeper into what's happening in town and I will talk about why these projects are good for our town's image.
1. US-202 and Markley Street is on its way to being complete
The Markley Street Project is coming along ahead of schedule and exciting residents and businesses along that stretch of US-202. Just last week, a MAJOR improvement occurred when Johnson Highway (aka, the worst road in America) received new blacktop...and it was done the right way! Workers dug up decades worth of road (even the old brick road that was one paved over) and replaced it with dirt and a new foundation. The rest of Markley Street is also seeing this improvement...and we are excited for the project to complete!
2. Lafayette Street Corridor Project Underway
Just over a year ago, officials broke ground on the project on Lafayette Street, connecting Norristown to Conshohocken. Just like US-202, this project will take a few years to be complete as long as the state continues to fund both projects...but things are looking to go smooth. Once this project is complete, there are hopes that an interchange will be created on the Dannehower Bridge, but that may take up to 25 years! Anyways, still worth mentioning.
3. Oak Street Improvement Project...FINALLY
This morning, I woke up to the sounds of trucks rumbling, pavement being dug up, and crews hard at work...finally! As a resident of this area of Oak between Noble and Buttonwood, I have...correction, my car has had to deal with horrible road conditions after each Winter. The problem with Oak Street is that there is a brick road underneath and will continue to be in horrible shape until the brick road is removed. The picture above was taken last Winter, however, this road was paved only 6 years ago. That gives you an idea of how important foundation is when it comes to paving a road. This time around, the work is being completed the right way and crew is taking the road down to its bare before placing a new surface. Signs went up yesterday announcing road closure for the next week. All the nearby residents, including myself, are not complaining of the temporary inconvenience as long as it gives us better conditions.
4. Luxury apartment plans throughout Norristown
A few months ago, it was announced that the former PNC Bank office (1 West Main Street) will soon have luxury apartments on the upper levels and retail space on the bottom floors. This is a great thing to when it comes to thinking about how we can attract more foot traffic downtown. That area of downtown is filled with many dining and entertainment options. This past week, another plan was presented to develop more luxury apartments on Sandy Street and last month construction crews broke ground on the 1200 block of Dekalb for townhomes. Development is happening all over Norristown and the hope is that it will spark a positive trend.
5. New businesses opening
Last month, a new Mexican restaurant called Las Palmas del Sur opened right across the street from the former PNC building and future luxury apartment complex. Do I need to explain why the two are related? Wonderful move by the owners. Plus, I am personally a huge fan of REAL Mexican cuisine (sorry Taco Bell). Norristown is fortunate to be surrounded by a diverse culture of residents native of countries like Mexico, Italy, Haiti, India and more. So when a restaurant like Las Palmas opens in Norristown, you know you're getting the real deal.
6. Graffiti cleanup project scheduled
Of course, I would like to end this blog by mentioning the next project coming up hosted by TNP and in partnership with Christ Church. On October 25th, TNP needs volunteers to help with a graffiti cleanup on the West End of town. We will also clean Blackberry, Hurst and Rapp Alley during this graffiti cleanup. Cleaning graffiti gives the neighborhood a fresh look and helps reduce crime. We are proud to say that the property we removed graffiti on last year still remains untouched! If you're interested in joining our graffiti cleanup, email TNP founder Shae Ashe at sashe@montcooic.org or call 610-279-9700.
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