Yonkers residents help 'Reimagine Central Avenue' during first of 3 public workshops
"They need things for young people. They need a 'Dave and Busters.' They need entertainment. Growing up in this area and growing up on Central Avenue, they used to have two miniature golf. They had a bowling alley," said Yonkers resident Pamela Stern.
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'Reimagine Central Avenue' is the City of Yonkers new community-centric planning initiative to redesign Central Park Avenue. The idea is to make it more walkable, connected and vibrant.
For decades Central Avenue has served as a vital shopping and business destination. Mayor Mike Spano says his hope is to transform it in a way that aligns with the wants and needs of the community.
Monday night's meeting was the first opportunity for residents to come out and share their ideas with city officials.
"They need things for young people. They need a 'Dave and Busters.' They need entertainment. Growing up in this area and growing up on Central Avenue, they used to have two miniature golf. They had a bowling alley," said Yonkers resident Pamela Stern.
"I want to see more green spaces. More spaces for sitting. And just, like, having that kind of environment," said Yonkers resident Heidi Fleischman.
While some said they welcome new development, others feel Central Avenue is already congested.
"This is a residential area. You don't want skyscrapers, huge office buildings. You definitely don't want fast food, you've got tons" said Yonkers resident Gary Tencer.
Additional public workshops will be scheduled over the next eight to ten months, with a public hearing set for 2027.
This is one of several redevelopment projects scheduled for Yonkers, including along the waterfront and South Broadway.
