Residents, local business owners frustrated by ongoing Washington Avenue renovation
Residents and business owners along Philadelphia’s transportation arteries are growing frustrated with an ongoing roadworks project that the city promises will improve traffic safety and flow.
Philadelphia – Residents and business owners near major Philadelphia transportation arteries are growing frustrated with an ongoing roadworks project that the city promises will improve safety and traffic flow.
The renovation of Washington Avenue in South Philadelphia began in August near Delaware Avenue and has since continued to 10th Street. It is scheduled to be completed by the end of this year.
While some love the new proposed bike lanes sandwiched between curbs and outside parking lanes, most of those interviewed by FOX 29 were outraged by the ongoing headaches.
Wally Giordano, owner of Giordano’s Produce at 9th and Washington Streets, said the project has dramatically reduced parking spaces, and the changing configuration of reflective lane markings has created an obstacle course for his customers.
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“They’re everywhere,” Giordano said. “I just told them to step aside and I’ll bring you your stuff, it’s a challenge.”
Amid a virtual sea of roadwork signs directing traffic for motorists and pedestrians, there are posters detailing the city’s goals for the Washington Avenue project.
The posters boasted crosswalks, lane closures for cyclists, and lane markings and resurfaced roads to improve safety to make life smoother for drivers. Officials believe the project will lead to a significant reduction in traffic deaths by 2030.
Nubia Castillo opened her business, Arepas, just three months ago near Washington Boulevard, and she’s already noticing the impact it’s had on clients. Castillo said some nearby businesses have started using chairs or cones to occupy the front of their businesses.
“It’s already crowded and that’s only going to make it worse,” Giordano said.