City Council approved changing Unity Way to Previte Way in honor of family

By Barbara Taormina

Earlier this month, the City Council voted to change the name of Unity Way to Previte Way to honor the Previte family and their contributions to the Beachmont neighborhood. The Previte family were longtime owners of Previte’s Market on State Road which serviced the Beachmont area for decades. City councillors voted on the motion to provide financial and logistical support to any residents or businesses struggling with the change of address, an issue which drew the concerns of neighborhood residents.

Bradstreet Avenue resident Mary Turner said that if the change goes through, it would be like moving where you would have to change your bills, credit cards and banking statements, which she said would be a heavy burden to many. She also cited the possible safety issues to residents with respect to police and fire response times.

City Council President Pro Tempore Joanne McKenna promised to knock on every door to help residents who needed a hand switching addresses.

The council also voted to request the acting mayor to look at the possibility of converting the green space at the top of Previte Way into a passive pocket park with a unity tree and benches for residents to enjoy the view.

“Since I was a boy, I’ve watched seniors and everybody shop and walk back up those stairs. Having that as a sitting area where people can stop and catch their breath is a great idea. It’s not going to be a handout area – just a passive sitting area where people can enjoy the view,” said Councillor-at-Large Marc Silvestri.

Joanne McKenna asked the Beachmont Improvement Committee (BIC) to work with Elle Baker, the city’s open space and environmental planner, on plans for the park.

Ed Deveau, a member of the BIC, said he was pleased the committee would be actively involved in developing the park. “The BIC didn’t head up this effort but it stands ready to work with the City on the park that I think will be a jewel at the head of Previte Way, “ said Deveau.

The City Council voted in favor of the motion, which was sponsored by Councillor-at-Large Gerry Visconti.