South Merrick Community Civic Focuses on Town Beautification

The South Merrick Community Civic Association (SMCCA) is going full-force to better the look of the South Merrick business district along Merrick Road.

Joe Baker, president of SMCCA, as well as Jennifer Schlesinger, chairperson of the committee, are trying to find ways to not only get the word out about the Merrick Road Improvement Committee (MRIC) but they are hoping to be able to work with tenants and landlords to improve the look of the strip.

"We will be introducing this initative to the businesses in hopes that we can work hand-in-hand with them," Baker said.

Schlesinger added, "We need a few people to go along with it and then people say 'Oh, that looks nice!' and hopefully they will follow suit."

SMCCA is in the process of drafting a letter to tenants stating a few details of what it is looking to do to improve the look of the business district and may also begin highlighting those businesses that do put in the extra effort as "Business of the Month" as well as recognizing those businesses that have made the most improvements.

"We can't expect a miracle overnight, but this is a step in the right direction," Baker said.

In addition, Baker has been taking down signs that litter the telephone polls throughout the stretch.

"These signs are illegal, but the Town doesn't really do anything about them unless someone says something. I have been taking them down myself and urge anyone else to take them down," he said.