City Council:
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE RENAMING
OF THE ROUNDABOUT LOCATED AT LINCOLN
AVENUE AND GRAMATAN AVENUE IN HONOR
OF FORMER MAYOR ERNEST D. DAVIS
Whereas, by letter dated October 2, 2024, the City Council President has requested legislation authorizing the Renaming of the Roundabout located at Lincoln Avenue and Gramatan Avenue in Honor of Former Mayor Ernest D. Davis, whose visionary leadership transformed the area and significantly improved the safety and functionality of the intersection; and
Whereas, the City of Mount Vernon seeks to honor individuals whose leadership, vision, and commitment have significantly contributed to the growth, safety, and prosperity of the City; and
Whereas, former Mayor Ernest D. Davis, elected in 1996 as Mount Vernon’s 19th Mayor, played a pivotal role in the resurgence of the City through his innovative leadership and transformative urban planning initiatives; and
Whereas, under the leadership of Mayor Davis, the dangerous four-way intersection at Lincoln Avenue and Gramatan Avenue was transformed into a functional roundabout, improving traffic flow, reducing accidents, and enhancing public safety; and
Whereas, Mayor Davis’s leadership extended beyond infrastructure, as he championed causes that uplifted Mount Vernon’s youth, promoted inclusivity, and fostered economic and social progress, leaving a lasting legacy of civic growth and community development; and
Whereas, Mayor Davis’s architectural expertise and focus on smart infrastructure resulted in significant revitalization efforts across the City, making Mount Vernon a regional hub for business and community growth; and
Whereas, it is fitting to honor Mayor Ernest D. Davis by renaming the Lincoln Avenue and Gramatan Avenue roundabout as the “Ernest D. Davis Roundabout” to commemorate his transformative contributions and to ensure future generations remember his lasting impact on the City of Mount Vernon; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That
The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact:
Section 1. Renaming of the Lincoln and Gramatan Roundabout. The roundabout located at the intersection of Lincoln Avenue and Gramatan Avenue shall be officially renamed as the “Ernest D. Davis Roundabout” in honor of former Mayor Ernest D. Davis, whose visionary leadership transformed the area and significantly improved the safety and functionality of the intersection.
Section 2. Commemorative Ceremony. The City Council authorizes the organization of a renaming plaque ceremony to be held at Hartley Park on November 3, 2024, in honor of Mayor Ernest D. Davis. Invitations will be sent to local, County, and State officials, and news coverage and social media announcements will be coordinated to ensure broad public recognition of this honor.
Section 3. Public Safety and Traffic Control. The Mount Vernon Police Department is hereby authorized to provide auxiliary police officers for traffic control and to ensure the safety of participants during the ceremony.
Section 4. Plaque and Signage. The Department of Public Works is authorized and directed to install appropriate signage at the roundabout, reflecting its new designation as the “Ernest D. Davis Roundabout.” A commemorative plaque shall also be placed at the site to recognize Mayor Davis’ contributions to the City.
Section 5. Effective Date. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption by the City Council.