Gateway to Renewal

July 15, 2024

Toledo's Junction neighborhood is embarking on a transformative project aimed at revitalizing its image and fostering community pride.

The Land Bank, in collaboration with the Junction Coalition, Urban Wholistics, and the Toledo Design Collective, is building a welcoming gateway at the corner of Collingwood Boulevard and Nebraska Avenue. This neglected space will be transformed into a vibrant, attractive entrance to the neighborhood, signaling a new era of progress and community engagement.

This summer, juniors and seniors at Toledo Public School's Jones Leadership Academy of Business, which is across the street from the Gateway, joined the Land Bank team to add a pleasing wood stain to the fence that surrounds the property. As part of this service project, the students learned more about the ongoing efforts to revitalize the neighborhood where they learn and where many students live.

A Collaborative Effort

Shantaé Brownlee, Senior Vice President for Operations & CFO at the Land Bank and an 18-year resident of Junction, highlighted the need for this project, stating that the neighborhood's true vibrancy often goes unnoticed. The gateway will serve as a "visual voice for the community," showcasing Junction's unique identity and spirit. The gateway will feature improved sidewalks, clear signage, and a passive design that encourages pedestrians to pause and enjoy the space.

Addressing Safety Concerns

Improving pedestrian safety is a key focus of the project. Before, the sidewalk along Collingwood Boulevard and Nebraska Avenue lacked a buffer from traffic, posing a risk to pedestrians, especially nearby students. The gateway addresses this issue by pushing the sidewalk inward, creating a safer space for both pedestrians and bus riders.

Community Engagement and Pride

The project has garnered significant community support, with residents actively participating in design discussions. Christie Edwards, a longtime Junction resident, emphasized the importance of instilling pride in the younger generation and sees the gateway as a symbol of the neighborhood's potential. Larry Lanting, another resident, expressed hope that the gateway will inspire residents to invest in their community and create a positive environment for everyone.

A Bright Future

With an estimated budget of $100,000, the gateway project is expected to be completed in 2024. Sonia Flunder-McNair and Urban Wholistics will contribute to the project by landscaping the area with resilient sunflowers, symbolizing the neighborhood's strength and determination.

The Junction Gateway project is more than just a beautification effort; it's a testament to the power of collaboration, community engagement, and a shared vision for a brighter future. This initiative will not only improve the neighborhood's aesthetics but also foster a sense of belonging, pride, and hope for all who call Junction home.