A resolution that would test making West 2nd Avenue a one-way street for 90 days is on the agenda for the November 20th meeting of Conshohocken’s borough council. East 2nd Avenue is a one-block commercial street between Fayette and Harry streets, lined with Tony & Joe’s Pizzeria, A Piermani & Son beer distributor, The Great American Pub, John Brothers Automotive, and some offices.

Executive Director of Operations Ray Sokolowski made a presentation on the issue to the council during the November 6th meeting. Sokolowski shared images of the street during peak hours when approximately 100 vehicles utilize it, including delivery trucks that block a lane. The presentation can be viewed here (cue to 1:12).

Under the 90-day test period, vehicles coming over the Matsonford Bridge could turn right onto East 2nd Avenue, and those coming down Fayette Street could turn left onto the street. Vehicles traveling down Harry Street would no longer be allowed to turn right onto East 2nd Avenue. Departing vehicles will then exit via a right turn on Harry Street. Exiting onto Fayette Street will be prohibited.

During the presentation, Sokolowski referenced an article published by MoreThanTheCurve.com in May 2024, showing that much of the signage directing drivers where to park downtown was inadequate and/or outdated. Sokolowski agreed with that assessment and pointed out how establishing East 2nd Avenue as a one-way street can point traffic to the public parking garages. He also mentioned that a plan to update the signage is forthcoming.

When asked about the business owners’ responses to the plan, Sokolowski shared that some did not want to see a change because they believed it would negatively impact their business.

Change is also coming to West 2nd Avenue. The block of West 2nd Avenue between Fayette and Forrest streets has long been home to a memorial to veterans and a statue named “The Family.” Lanes up and down the block were on either side of the memorial. Traffic is no longer permitted on the block, and there is a plan to create a pocket park on the site, which will also continue as the home for the memorial and statue.

If the borough council adopts the resolution for the test on East 2nd Avenue, the 90-test will likely start after the holidays.

Photo – Top image from Google. Map from Borough of Conshohocken.