Welcome back, Rondo!

On April 30, 2024, we welcomed over one hundred visitors to The Restoration of Rondo Avenue at the Rondo Commemorative Plaza. After remarks from Executive Director Marvin Anderson, we heard spoken word poetry from Marie Chante’ Flowers and speeches from Former Councilmember Russel Balenger and Councilmember Anika Bowie.

"Although the freeway … took away our homes, our families, our businesses, it did not take away the spirit of Rondo, the spirit of the place that we continue to call home.” — Councilmember Anika Bowie

Mayor (& Rondolite) Melvin Carter gave an energizing speech, outlining the progress that has taken place in his lifetime.

“I was excited when I was young. And we started putting up those old Rondo, those historic Rondo, those Memorial Rondo street signs, but I’m even more excited to take them down. We’ve taken down the ‘once upon a time’ Rondo signs and we’re putting up the ‘one day’ Rondo signs. We’re putting up the ‘tomorrow’ Rondo signs. We’re putting up the Rondo signs that declare where we are and where we will be and when are we going to do it? Right now.” — Mayor Melvin Carter III

After speaking, Mayor Carter was hoisted above the corner of Concordia and Fisk St. With a flick of his wrist, he revealed the new ‘Rondo Avenue’ sign!

Educator and author Marion Kennon wrote, “You can imagine the excitement when we saw the Rondo Avenue sign—finally and rightfully—back in place. So long overdue.  Quite a day and sight!!!”

Afterwards, we heard musical performances by ComMUSICation, and enjoyed “Rondo Ave” cookies from the Cookie Cart. Visitors mulled around a small ‘marketplace’ featuring information about the Rondo Block Party, T-shirts from RCODE and ReConnect Rondo, wildflower seeds courtesy of RCODE, and information from author Mercedes Yarbrough. 

Thank you to everyone who pushed for the restoration of Rondo Ave; to those who understand the power of a name; and to those who celebrated with us on this joyous occasion. Welcome Back, Rondo Avenue!