4 minute read
Let’s Gather in the Circle
Our Community feature by Sheila Turner-Hilliard
Tucked away from all of Newtown Square’s noisy roadwork and never-ending construction is a little slice of hometown pride called St. Albans Circle. This hidden gem is home to many diverse local businesses, charming, historic buildings and nearby walkable neighborhoods. But be honest: How many times have you taken this roundabout just to avoid traffic on West Chester Pike? Do you ever think to stop and shop?
The business owners “on the circle” invite you to take a second look. Many have established themselves in St. Albans because they recognize it as a special part of our community. From the central location to the proximity to major roads and transportation, this unique section of Newtown Square also seems to be the last remaining spot that hasn’t been transformed into one of today’s cookie-cutter shopping districts.
How great would it be to see our beloved circle come alive with community events and family programs, all while supporting our local businesses! Well, the wait is finally over, thanks to a forward-thinking and generous group of volunteers, township officials and community leaders.
The group is called Gather in the Circle and their mission is to make sure this important and unique part of Newtown Square doesn't get left behind and that it continues to thrive. They’ve partnered with two groups that share this mission — Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission and Connect the Dots — and they’re working together to unlock the potential of the St. Albans Circle area by inviting the community to gather there for new and exciting community happenings.
Fresh produce from Urban Roots Farm
Photo courtesy of Jack Goldenberg
One of the first events to take place is the Newtown Square Farmers Market. Beginning June 4th, the market will run every Friday from 3pm to 6pm through September. Pam Purser, co-Chair of Gather in the Circle, said, "I am looking forward to all of the projects that we are planning this year, but I am especially excited to be heading up the Newtown Square Farmers Market! We have received such a great response from the community and can’t wait to showcase amazing local growers, producers and artisans."
Our friends at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church on Chapel Rd have graciously agreed to host this weekly event. Fr. Matthew Dayton-Welch, Rector of the church, remarked, “We hope this Farmers Market gives us a much-needed opportunity to celebrate the best of local vendors and to be grateful for the chance to safely gather together.”
St. Alban’s Episcopal Church
Photo courtesy of Rev. Matthew Dayton-Welch
Several vendors have already signed up, and the committee is eager to welcome a few more. One of the main vendors who will participate every week is Urban Roots Farm (www.UrbanRootsFarm.com). Operated by Jack Goldenberg and Matt Danelutti, the farm cultivates fresh produce on a 26-acre parcel of land on the historic Garrett Williamson property on Bishop Hollow Rd. Jack shared his feelings about participating: “We love this opportunity to feed more of our neighbors healthy, locally grown delicious food.” Other vendors’ specialty items will include artisan breads, coffee, pickles, flowers, plants and candles. Plans are also underway to offer entertainment and activities for the whole family.
Another fantastic project in the works for spring and early summer is a Pop-up Park in St. Albans Circle. The Gather in the Circle committee is excited to partner with Newtown Square in Bloom, to create a space where folks can gather and relax. The temporary park will feature native trees and plants, benches and gardens and local artwork.
If you typically use the circle as your cut-through to West Chester Pike or Route 252, you may be wondering how these events will all take place without closing the roads to vehicle traffic. It’s no secret that the circle can be dangerous to navigate, especially as a pedestrian. The Gather in the Circle committee recognizes this challenge and is in the process of exploring how physical changes to existing roads such as painted crosswalks and directional signs, even if temporary, can calm vehicle speeds and increase pedestrian safety.
As we begin to return to normal, it’s important to remember all the local businesses who have consistently shown up to lend their support to our community year after year. Whether it be through school fundraisers, sports teams or families in need, many of the businesses who give back to our community are in St. Albans Circle. The Gather in the Circle committee recognizes their generosity and appreciates their commitment to maintaining our little slice of hometown pride. Let’s safely come together this spring and summer, to gather as the community we know and love.
