Mount Rainier, August 1 - In a momentous groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday August 1, 2023, the City of Mount Rainier marked the commencement of one of its biggest infrastructure projects, the Memorial Streetscape Project. With a budget of approximately $ 1.2 million, the initiative aims to revitalize the 3300-3400 block of Rhode Island Avenue and Perry Street, heralding a new era of vibrancy and growth in the heart of the city's downtown core.
“This marks a remarkable milestone for Mount Rainier," said Mayor Benitez. "The Memorial Park Streetscape Project represents our collective vision for a thriving and welcoming city, embracing sustainable development and creating a space where our community can come together."
The project, which was awarded to Usource Construction, will involve improvements of existing walkways, street storm drain, stormwater best management practice, landscaping, and strategic placement of seat benches, and additions of stage areas that will allow the community to host a diverse range of events.
In line with the city's dedication to sustainability, the project will also feature bioretention areas that will contribute to managing stormwater runoff, promoting a greener and eco-conscious community.
Mayor Celina Benitez led the groundbreaking ceremony and was joined by Councilmembers Jarrett Stoltzfus, Valerie Woodall and Danielle Carter, City Manager, Kourosh Kamali, Director of Economic Development, Ronald Hopkins, Director of Public Works, Rocio Latorre, Chief of Police, Linwood Alston, Director of Code Compliance, Alma Ferrufino, Director of Administrative Services/City Clerk, Melissa Sam, Grant Writer Bill Bystricky, Media Production Coordinator, Jared Alindogan, Corporal Eddie Murphy, Social Services Coordinator, Nicaury Vasquez, Low Impact Development Center, Neil Weinstein, Usource CEO, Shirley Boubert, and Greenwill Consulting Group, Jonathan Carpenter. Members of the community also attended the ceremony.
"The City is investing in infrastructure projects in the downtown core will not only support existing businesses, but it will also attract economic opportunities," stated Mayor Celina Benitez.
The project was introduced by Councilmember Luke Chesek in 2017 during his first year in the City Council. His pivotal role in securing grants from the Community Legacy Program, administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), and the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority (MHAA), was instrumental in advancing the project.
In addition to the DHCD grant and MHAA grants, the Memorial Park Streetscape Project is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act. The project is set to be completed in six months.
As the Memorial Streetscape Project commences, the City of Mount Rainier looks forward to the exciting changes that will redefine its downtown core.