Belleville Mayor Tours Washington Avenue, Ponders Changes

BELLEVILLE, NJ — What changes would you like to see on Washington Avenue, Belleville? That’s the question Mayor Michael Melham hoped to explore when he took to the avenue last weekend on his “What’s Up Wash?” walking tour.

On Saturday, Melham - along with members of the Council and township officials - walked the entire length of Washington Avenue in an effort to speak with local community members, residents and business owners about possible upgrades at the busy street.

“It was great to hit the streets and meet local business operators,” Melham said. “Their feedback is important. This was the beginning of a dialogue; it’s the first step in the overall process.”

The next steps include “action,” the mayor said.

Melham said some possible steps include:

• “The township is currently moving forward with plans to restrict many news boxes, which are cluttering the Avenue, and are in discussions with Public Works to create an action plan to consistently keep the avenue clean while encouraging local shop operators to participate in the beautification.”
• “[I am] interested in utilizing Clean Communities grant money to purchase a Sidewalk Sweeper. Municipal officials will also be meeting this week with DOT engineers to discuss various improvements and streetscape upgrades.”

What changes would YOU like to see on Washington Avenue? Share your answer in the comments section, and don’t forget to visit the Patch Belleville-Nutley Facebook page here.

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Photos courtesy of Michael Melham