Road Revival: A New Name for a Fresh Start

Sayonara Drive, once infamous for its high crime rate, is being transformed into a safer neighborhood. The city began buying and demolishing old houses along the street in 2009, aiming for a fresh start.

New Homes Rise

A partnership with Habitat for Humanity has spurred new construction.

• Eight houses finished last Saturday.
• Rudy Orandens, the first family to move in, expresses hope for a brighter future for his children.

Name Change Debate

Despite physical improvements, residents remain divided over keeping the name “Sayonara.”

• A recent survey shows 68 % of homeowners and renters want a new name.
• Some, like Addie Reed, worry that renaming would be too much trouble.

The city council met on Wednesday night to discuss the issue. They decided to wait until all new families are settled before making a final choice. Vice Mayor Porsche Middleton emphasized that every new resident should help pick the new name if a change occurs.

Future Plans

Habitat for Humanity plans to finish four more homes by year’s end and aims to complete the remaining ten by 2027. The goal is a fresh name that reflects the new, safer community.