Posted by C. Stribling on July 17, 2005 at 10:19:52:
The Main Street New Jersey Program, established in 1989, encourages and supports the revitalization of commercial districts throughout the state. Every two years the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) accepts applications and designates selected communities to join the program. These communities receive valuable technical support and training to assist in restoring their commercial district as a center of community and economic activity. The results in New Jersey have been impressive. Main Street New Jersey Communities have brought significant numbers of new businesses and jobs to their respective areas. In addition, facade improvements and building rehabilitation projects have upgraded the image of Main Street. So, how did Monticello Avenue come into the picture? Through the Monticello Community Development Corporation (MCDC). Facing a weary community that had been informed over the years that redevelopment for Monticello was looming, MCDC forged ahead and successfully galvanized and championed the cause for improvement of this once viable neighborhood-shopping district. MCDC impressed upon the city, its departments, agencies, area businesses and residents, the importance of proper planning and development. Formed in 2001 as the Monticello Steering Committee, MCDC gained sound support through community partnerships, hosting community-wide meetings, and informing all city departments and agencies of their accomplishments and goals for a secure commercial district and well- rounded community. MCDC's pursuit of Main Street New Jersey designation continues the effort to solidify Monticello Avenue and its surrounding area as a historically valued, economically viable, resident-sensitive corridor that will service all who reside and visit the area. Part of the Historic Bergen Hill district, the Monticello Avenue Redevelopment area is 16 square blocks resting north to south between Communipaw and Fairmount Avenues, and east to west between Bergen and Summit Avenues. Over 90% of the buildings along Monticello Avenue were built between the late 1800's and 1945. Resting off of Communipaw Avenue, designated Jersey City's "Gateway to the Monuments," Monticello Avenue will transform into a destination spot for all visitors seeking shopping, dining, and entertainment. Applying Main Street philosophy will bring about the transformation - a proven formula for making the process work. MCDC's strategy and results are: · Proper Redevelopment of Monticello Avenue into a Neighborhood Shopping District with an Arts Overlay · Overwhelming support from Jersey City and the Jersey City Economic Development Corporation · Guaranteed monies needed for improvements over the next year, including: o 1.5 million from the NJ Department of Transportation for new streetscape project, to begin in spring of 2005 o Over 1 million recently approved by the Jersey City Council for a Block Front Program o $60,000 from the DCA' Smart Growth grant earlier this year, specifically for planning efforts on Monticello Avenue MCDC is a volunteer-community based organization comprised of community leaders, business and property owners, residents and other relative stakeholders.
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