Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr. spoke with NJ.com about the closing of the Izod Arena and the benefits to Newark.

Read the story as it originally appeared on nj.com.

By Naomi Nix

Newark area leaders praised the state's decision to close the Izod Center and move its programming to the Prudential Center as a welcome opportunity to boost the economy of the state's largest city.

The Izod Center is poised to close its doors by the end of the month in a deal that is expected to be announced today.

"This is a long time coming. It never made sense to keep open an outdated arena that is less than 10 miles away from the City of Newark and the Prudential Center," North Ward councilman Anibal Ramos said in a statement.

"I commend the governor's decision and I believe it will certainly increase the number of events at the Rock and serve as a greater catalyst for economic development in our downtown district."

Lee en español

My goal is to help make Mount Prospect Avenue one of the city’s premier shopping districts, benefitting both those who have invested in our city and those who live and work in the community.

A recent streetscape project has dramatically improved the Mount Prospect business district with new sidewalks and curbs, ADA ramps, benches and trees.

However, the bicycle lanes that were installed as part of the streetscape improvement project have been a major concern for business owners and residents.

I am happy to announce that the bicycle lanes have been deactivated and drivers are now allowed to legally park next to the curb in the bicycle lanes.

Read in English

Mi meta es convertir los negocios de la avenida Mt. Prospect Aven en uno de los distritos mas prospero para benefico de los comerciantes y residents de nuestra gran ciudad de Newark.

Un proyecto reciente desarrollado para mejora de la estructura de nuestras calles ha beneficiado drasticamente nuestros negocios con nuevas aceras, rampas accesilbes para personas incapacitadas, baneos para el Descanso de nuestros ciudadanos y la siembra de nuevos arboles.

Sin embargo estas lienas desarrollada para ciclistas que fueron creadas como parte del projecto, se han convertido en una gran preocupacion para los duenos de negoicos y como para los residents.

Estoy muy content y satisfecho de comunicarle a la comunidad que las lineas para los ciclistas han sido sus pendiad y se les permitira estacionor los vehiculos en dichas lineas.