Local Share Account funding will support new sidewalks, underground utilities and continued investment in the Bala Avenue commercial corridor
BALA CYNWYD, Pa., (September 16, 2026) — City Ave District today announced it has been awarded $400,000 through Pennsylvania’s Statewide Local Share Account (LSA) program to advance the Bala Avenue Sidewalk Improvement Project along the 200 block of Bala Avenue and North Highland Avenue in Bala Cynwyd.
The $400,000 grant will support a project to replace deteriorated sidewalks, move utility power lines underground and improve pedestrian safety and accessibility. Engineering and final design will move forward next, with construction anticipated in spring 2027.
“Targeted infrastructure investments like this make a real difference in how people experience a community,” said State Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti. “This funding will improve safety and accessibility on Bala Avenue while supporting the small businesses that make this corridor an increasingly important part of Lower Merion and the City Ave District.”
The sidewalk investment comes at a significant moment for Bala Avenue. City Ave District’s Main Street Matters designation identifies Bala Avenue as one of three commercial nodes at the center of a five-year revitalization strategy focused on walkability, small business growth, public space improvements and redevelopment of vacant and underutilized properties. Additionally, this grant will ensure that Bala Avenue is aesthetically and visually more appealing to patrons and pedestrians walking the street. Earlier this year, the District also received $1 million through Main Street Matters to help advance the rehabilitation of the historic 202 Bala Avenue property.
That momentum is increasingly visible on the ground. Core Development and HOW Group are advancing a major mixed-use project centered on 202 Bala Avenue and the adjacent 210-216 Bala Avenue properties. The project will bring more than 80 new residences, street-level retail and a new public gathering plaza to the heart of the corridor, creating new activity and customers for Bala Avenue businesses while helping establish the more walkable Main Street environment envisioned for the area.
“Bala Avenue has long been an important commercial center in Lower Merion, and I have been proud to support it throughout my years in public service and on the City Ave District board,” said State Representative Mary Jo Daley. “The Main Street Matters designation has brought renewed focus to this historic corridor, and we are now seeing that focus translate into real investment. I am excited to see the pieces coming together for the businesses, residents and community that have long been part of Bala Avenue.”
“For years, we have talked about the potential of Bala Avenue. Now we are seeing the pieces come together,” said Bryan Fenstermaker, President & CEO of City Ave District. “New development, Main Street investment and improvements to the public realm are all moving in the same direction. We are doubling down on Bala Avenue, and we are grateful to Senator Cappelletti and Representative Daley for helping us move this important project forward.”
About City Ave District
City Ave District is the catalyst for transformation and revitalization across this important regional corridor. We serve the entire District community from businesses and employees, to residents, students, visitors and more, providing programs and supplemental services that create a clean, safe and vibrant environment. City Ave District spans a 2.7 mile area from the City of Philadelphia to Lower Merion Township. For more information visit www.cityave.org.
Media Contact:
Melissa Grimm
Grimm & Grove Communications
215-840-0604
melissa@grimmandgrove.com
