New streetscape completed, more improvements on the way
The construction work on Main Street has reached a milestone, as Thursday marked the grand opening of Phase One of the Old Town Newhall Streetscape Project. The Santa Clarita City Council gathered with local businesses and community members for a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday evening. The event was held at the intersection of Market Street and Main Street and coincided with the Old Town Newhall weekly Farmer’s Market.
The first phase of the Old Town Newhall Streetscape Project focused on two blocks of Main Street, from 6th Street to 8th Street. New sidewalk pavers, hardscape, and street furniture have been installed, as well as landscaping and tree planting.
The newly paved streets are now lined with oak, sycamore, and mesquite trees and drought-friendly shrubs. Brick and boardwalk surfaces make up the newly widened sidewalks and crosswalks. Old-fashioned wooden lodge poles and streetlamps reminiscent of old gas lamps adorn light poles, evoking an historical ambiance.
“The City is thrilled to celebrate the completion of the exciting Old Town Newhall streetscape project,” said Mayor Frank Ferry. “Phase 1 is the official first step toward transforming Old Town Newhall into a thriving Arts and Entertainment District, setting the stage for entertainment and activities for community member of all ages to enjoy.”
The Streetscape Project is part of the Downtown Newhall Specific Plan, which is intended to help transform downtown Newhall into a mixed-use, pedestrian-oriented urban village. In addition to the streetscape improvements, a new and larger Old Town Newhall library facility is also in the works.
Mayor Ferry speaks to the crowd.
City Planning Manager Paul Brotzman tries on a western coat at SCV Out West, a new store in downtown Newhall.