Verona Council Notebook: March Voting Meeting

Here's a roundup of items discussed at the March 13 Verona Council meeting.

School Traffic

At least one Verona official is concerned about the closing of a portion of South Avenue during 's dismissal.

Currently, the road closes Herron Avenue and First Street. Councilman Kevin Larkin said that causes a safety issue because it diverts traffic to "unsafe areas," such as alleys and back roads like Poplar Street, where children can be walking home from school.

"I can't believe a kid hasn't been hit yet," he said.

Residents suggested making some of those alley ways and back streets one-way during school dismissal to prevent motorists from using them as a way around the closure.

New Police Car

Verona Mayor Dave Ricupero is looking into purchasing a new police vehicle.

Ricupero said a $15,000 grant received with the help of state Rep. Tony DeLuca (D-32) will expire in June. He said the most likely would retire its Jeep.

Riverbank Park Update

Officials had been talking about installing an ADA-accessible river ramp as part of a renovation project at Riverbank Park, but borough engineer Larry Seiler said it's not going to happen right away.

Seiler said it would be a costly undertaking at the moment, but he plans to apply for future grants to fund the project.

In the meantime, work will soon begin on other improvements. The projects includes the paving of the tennis and basketball courts; line striping; new fencing; lighting along the walkway; the removal and planting of trees; new trash bins; and removable tennis nets.

Chamber Scholarship

The Verona Chamber of Commerce will be giving out four $1,000 scholarships for students who live in Verona.

Kier Ewing of the chamber said students must live in Verona but don't have to go to . They can receive applications from RHS guidance counselor Bobbi Gross. Her phone number is 412-828-1800, ext. 1025.

Easter Egg Hunt

The Verona Chamber of Commerce Easter Egg Hunt will be held on April 7 at 11 a.m. at the park next to the .