By Jefferson D\u00edaz
\nThe Truth Reporter<\/p>\n
Broadway Street, the heart of Toledo\u2019s Old South End, officially reopened on Friday, September 5, after almost two years of construction, marking the end of a long and challenging chapter for residents and businesses along this corridor.<\/p>\n
The City of Toledo celebrated the occasion with a block party that drew families, business owners and community leaders.<\/p>\n
The party, held between Western Avenue and Crittenden Avenue, featured live music, a DJ, games for children and food giveaways. The first 150 attendees received free meals. Neighbors danced in the streets, children played freely and local businesses opened their doors to a renewed stream of visitors.<\/p>\n
For many of them, the reopening represents both relief and opportunity. Jonathan Ruiz, co-owner of La Paloma, a local restaurant, said the construction had severely impacted foot traffic. \u201cWe\u2019re finally seeing people we haven\u2019t seen in a long time,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Usevio \u201cChevo\u201d Torres, longtime resident of Broadway Street, described the moment as historic for the neighborhood. \u201cIt\u2019s amazing that we\u2019ve finally worked on our main street,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Broadway has always been central to community life in the Old South End. For mayoral candidate, Roberto Torres, the remodeling of this street put in danger a lot of businesses, that, at some point \u201cthey threatened to leave.\u201d<\/p>\n
Unexpected delays, including a major water line break, extended the timeline and tested the resilience of local businesses. In response, the city provided $170,000 in grants between 2024 and 2025 to help owners weather the financial strain.<\/p>\n
For Sue Cuevas, president and CEO of the nonprofit Nueva Esperanza, the reopening symbolizes more than new pavement. \u201cThis isn\u2019t just about the end of construction,\u201d she said. \u201cIt\u2019s the beginning of a new era for our community. We\u2019re proud to be in the Old South End.\u201d<\/p>\n
Theresa Gadus, Toledo City councilwoman, whose District 3 includes Broadway Street, said \u201cthis celebration is too important, it has been two long years since this project started.\u201d\u00a0 Gadus added, \u201cnow it\u2019s time to bring the community here and celebrate this re-opening helping the businesses.\u201d<\/p>\n
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