CAMDEN, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — The section of Haddon Avenue in Camden’s Parkside neighborhood is one of the most well-traveled roads in the area and it’s been in long need of a facelift.
Camden County Commissioner Al Dyer said a new $17 million investment in the road will completely transform the neighborhood.
“This reconstruction will include new curbs, sidewalks, ADA accessible ramps and driveways, traffic signal upgrades, sewer system lining, and water main service replacements,” he said.
It’s also big news for businesses along the road, like Blowin’ Smoque BBQ. Owner R’lay Wilkerson said it’s encouraging to see the city follow through on promises to fix things.
“Projects like this are important because I actually see the brightening of blighted spaces in the neighborhoods. So you see new homes going up, you see blighted homes being torn down, you see new businesses entering the community,” said Wilkerson. “These things are all suggestive of the hope and the promise that exists here in the city.”
To replace the street parking lost amid the construction, the city turned a nearby vacant lot into a parking lot for residents and visitors.
Officials said it will take about two years to complete all of the upgrades to the road.