South Bend Completes Another Revitalization Project
Western Avenue is the fifth project to be completed through this effort.
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowSouth Bend has completed what officials call a "focal point" of its West Side Main Streets Revitalization Plan. The $2.8 million Western Avenue project involves new curbs and sidewalks, landscaping, on-street parking and dedicated bike lanes.
It also include improvements to street lighting and three new vehicle lanes, two travel lanes and a center turn lane.
Mayor Pete Buttigieg says "the West Side has needed this investment for a long time. Not only is the improved streetscape safer and easier to use, but it also creates a more vibrant and inviting atmosphere for families and businesses."
The project is part of the city’s wider Smart Streets initiative, which is designed to drive economic development and improve access to businesses. Work on the Western Avenue portion of the project began in July and has focused on the three blocks between Bendix Drive and Dundee Avenue, which feature neighborhood businesses.
Other projects related to the larger plans are:
- Converting William Street and Lafayette Boulevard downtown from one-way to two-way traffic in 2014
- Streetscape work completed on East Jefferson Boulevard in 2014
- Streetscape improvements on Lincoln Way West in July
- Converting Marion and Madison Streets one-way to two-way traffic in August.
Executive Director of Community Investment Scott Ford says "the streetscape improvements on Western create a sense of place and support the identity of a unique neighborhood center. Combined with façade grants, ambassador services, and focused business development efforts, these streetscape improvements have spurred economic vitality along Western."