After a decade of planning, three different administrations and $6 million, Manorhaven celebrated the renovation of Manorhaven Boulevard Saturday.

“Celebrate Manorhaven Day” featured a street fair and a rededication ceremony. Pleasant weather, local vendors and music made for a festive atmosphere.

County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, Town Council Member Marianne Dalimonte and former Mayor Jim Avena joined Mayor Popeleski during the ceremony. They discussed the project alongside current and former village administration members.

Popeleski expressed his gratitude to DeRiggi-Whitton for leading the initiative with the village. He also praised Avena and Giovanna Giunta, his predecessors, for working on this project from 2012 to now.

“Without the hard work of [Jim Avena’s] administration, we wouldn’t have what we have today,” said Popeleski.

Work on the project began in December, following COVID-19 delays and tree removal objections. Officials expect the renovations to attract new companies and increase traffic in the village.

Popeleski said he was grateful to the residents and village personnel for their efforts and patience.

“As we see the fruits of so many people’s efforts, we are watching the transformation of Manorhaven Boulevard and our business district as they complete their work on the wall, the bus shelters and the landscaping,” he said.

The mile-long road and the village’s municipal parking lot are among the enhancements. There are also new crosswalks, traffic lights, bus shelters, trash cans and street lighting.

The project’s work is 90% complete, according to DeRiggi-Whitton. She said it was wonderful to see the progress made and that Manorhaven deserved it.

“I want to thank not only the government but the residents that came out and put their heart and soul in their opinions in this,” she said. “Because this is your street, and we wanted it to be the way you wanted it. I really am so proud of this moment. I’m proud of everyone working together.”

Dalimonte presented the village with a certificate on behalf of North Hempstead. She spoke about growing up in Manorhaven and thanked those who made the project a reality.

“We are so lucky that we have elected officials who truly care about our community,” she said. “Anytime I need anything, I pick up the phone and they’re always there — we are truly lucky.”

Avena, who served as mayor for much of the project, shared his stories as well. He spoke about the project’s beginnings as simple bus shelter upgrades to “tree huggers” pestering previous County Executive Laura Curran.

“It was a team effort,” he said. “And I’m very happy that Mayor Popeleski is following through on this and I wish him and his administration nothing but good luck.”