Ambler... Now

Business

Ambler has always been a commercial town. In the 1800's, businesses lined Main Street, and in the 20th century, they spread down Butler Avenue. After a period of stagnation during the 1980's, Ambler is now in the midst of a revitalization program.

In 1992, Ambler embarked on the Main Street Manager program. According to Bernadette Dougherty, Ambler's Main Street Manager, the Federal government offers guidelines as well as a challenge grant from the office of the Secretary of the Interior. Ambler raises matching funds-- $20,000 from Pennsylvania, $12,000 from the Borough of Ambler and other revenues from special events and memberships.

In addition, Ambler is applying to become a Business Improvement District. As such, it will become an "Authority"and be able to assess a modest levy on local businesses.

One recent improvement clearly evident in Ambler is the abundant flowers in hanging baskets, large planters and in areas that might otherwise grow weeds. Plant Ambler is the volunteer group responsible for the beautiful flora that blooms here from from spring to fall. Their dedication is demonstrated by the daily watering that they do. Even Main Street Manager, Dougherty, takes her turn with the watering can every Sunday!

Some new businesses are:
Ralph's Restaurant of Philadelphia- Great Italian food. An offshoot of Ralph's of South Philly.Reservations are a must! 215-619-4550
Palladio- Elegant home and garden accessories. 215-646-1012 Geeks and Gawds…The Music Shoppe- Used CD's and DVD's, T-shirts, etc. 215-793-9110
Mohave Moon- Personal and Home Accessories. 215-646-1609

The Compass, a quarterly newsletter for Ambler business owners published its first issue in 2002. It is filled with information about "recent accomplishments, new store openings, hot news, upcoming events, and more!" For information about the newsletter, call Bernadette Dougherty-215-641-1070. To subscribe-- emailnewsletter@amblermainstreet.org.

Membership in Ambler Main Street offers The Compass, public relations opportunities, façade improvement up to $3,000 in matching funds, Web page development services and more, according to Bud Wahl, Ambler's Mayor. An area resident for 37 years, and a banker at Ambler Savings and Loan, Mayor Wahl is obviously proud of Ambler's business progress over the past 10 years. He wants to keep the Borough moving forward swiftly but with a variety of business ventures.

His vision for the future is to find the right buyers and businessmen to revitalize the Borough so "the next time George W. Bush comes to this area, he'll come to Ambler."

Results
The advent of new business to the area has rejuvenated the Borough. New businesses have brought increased foot traffic to the area, which has ample parking, and older establishments are reporting higher sales.

Ms. Dougherty has heard from local real estate agents that housing prices, which had been static, have risen recently.

Learn more about the excellent Main Street Program at their Web site.

Ambler's Butler Avenue, showing the new red awnings of Ralph's Restaurant to the left, and a fitness center, to the right of the Cinema.

Find out about Ambler's exciting new cultural programs!

Sources:
Interviews with Bernadette Dougherty, Main Street Manager and Mayor Bud Wahl.
The Compass, First Quarter 2002, Volume I, issue 1.

Related Sites:
The Ambler Gazette , a weekly newspaper since 1882.
Information about modern Ambler can be found at http://www.ambler.pa.us.