BEECH GROVE WINS COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Emerson Avenue corridor project recognized for overall impact
 

BEECH GROVE WINS COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Emerson Avenue corridor project recognized for overall impact

BEECH GROVE, IN – September 2, 2008 – The Indiana Association of Cities and Towns has selected the City of Beech Grove’s Emerson Avenue redevelopment project for a Community Achievement Award.

According to IACT Executive Director Matthew Greller, Beech Grove was chosen for the award in the 5,000 to 15,000-population category based on several criteria.

“Our judges’ panel of former municipal officials and municipal government experts from the public and private sectors noted that government cooperation, community outreach, economic development and the project’s overall impact were key in Beech Grove’s selection for the award,” Greller said.

According to Redevelopment Commission President Terry Dilk, the Emerson Avenue corridor was redeveloped to serve as the City’s gateway to improve the community’s economic health.

“Revitalizing Emerson Avenue meant our ability to attract businesses to that corridor and Main Street has been strengthened. Our community now has a beautiful gateway to welcome residents and visitors alike.

“The corridor’s infrastructure included new pavement, curbs and sidewalks, resulting in safer traveling for both drivers and pedestrians. This major entrance is lined with enhanced street lighting, landscaping, planters and lighted towers, all in place to increase Beech Grove’s visibility and credibility as a great place to live and work,” Dilk said.

According to Mayor Joe Wright, the Emerson Avenue project brought about increased quality of life and community pride by enhancing the walk-ability of the community.

“This project represented our City’s progression towards being a walk-able, family friendly, business-friendly community. Another community amenity, the Centennial Park at the intersection of Emerson Avenue and Garstang Street serves as a gathering place with park benches and plaques dedicated to our veterans and public safety heroes.

“From the ‘Tear Down the Wall’ ceremony in April of 2006 to the ribbon cutting celebration 14 months later, Emerson Avenue’s revitalization was a collaboration between planners, designers, architects, local and state officials and most of all, Beech Grove citizens who worked together to make this dream a reality. It’s exciting that the merits of this significant redevelopment project have been recognized on a statewide level,” Wright said.

Wright will accept Beech Grove’s Community Achievement Award at IACT’s Annual Conference & Exhibition in South Bend on October 13.