Narberth’s new mayor wants residents to imagine a borough that feels just as welcoming stepping off the train as it does walking home at night, writes Denali Sagner for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Dana Edwards was sworn in earlier this month, bringing an approachable leadership style to the borough of roughly 4,500 residents. A longtime financial technology executive who moved to Narberth five years ago, Edwards ran unopposed after earning the local Democratic Party’s endorsement.
Edwards says Narberth’s charm is already there. Still, thoughtful revitalization could strengthen its walkability, local retail mix, and sense of community. His hopes to preserve the borough’s hometown feel while encouraging small-scale, community-oriented growth.
Among his priorities is moving the long-delayed redevelopment at 230 Haverford Avenue toward completion. The project would bring new apartments and ground-floor retail to the heart of downtown. He’s also focused on the long-closed Narberth Avenue Bridge, a vital connector expected to reopen later this decade.
With plans for newsletters, town halls, and even “purposely cringey” social media, Edwards hopes communication will be the glue that keeps Narberth moving forward.
For Edwards, the goal is to strengthen relationships, support local commerce, and remind people why Narberth’s DNA still resonates.
To learn more about Edwards’ background and Narberth’s future, visit The Philadelphia Inquirer.
