Mayors Message

MAYOR Berger’s Annual Address: FOCUS FOR 2026

Hello good citizens of Ridley Park,

            I believe the most important responsibility of local government is to provide for the safety, security, and protection of our residents. This was on full display this past Sunday 1/18/2026 when a fire broke out in the center of town (100 Block of Swarthmore Avenue, Center Park Apartments). We saw first hand a fast, professional response from our Ridley Park Fire Company and Ridley Park Police Department, along with surrounding towns’ first responders. I want to thank you all. Our heart goes out to the families affected by the fire; we have already seen our community coming together to provide support to our neighbors in need. With that being said, public safety must remain a major focus of our community.

Now, I would like to introduce a few of my goals for 2026. At the top of the list is applying pressure on the construction, permits, etc. for the bridge project. We know it has taken a long time and has taken its toll on our residents, business owners, and community as a whole. The June 2026 deadline needs to be real and I will do everything in my power to ensure that it is met.

Next, the Ridley Park Borough needs to reestablish its commitment to the residents of Ridley Park regarding the code enforcement on addressing blight and homes that are abandoned and in disarray. These eyesores create a host of public health and safety concerns that are left for the surrounding neighbors to deal with. I am calling on the council to make this a priority.

Pride in our town and community always starts with volunteerism. This goes across all of our boards and commissions and stretches into all of our organizations. This is what makes our town truly special. Each month, the council will highlight a need

 and continue to push for involvement.

The pumping heart of our small town – The Business District- will continue to have my full support.

Ridley Park Athletic Club – I will continue to advocate and be a voice for the youth of our community and work as hard as possible to give our children positive experiences and opportunities to learn life skills that will contribute to them becoming responsible citizens.

I will work to create/reestablished a Ridley Park Greens Initiative. This group will work year-round to enhance the gateways to our community- such as signage by the I-95 ramp, addressing pocket parks, and focusing on the lake.

Finally, 2026 marks 250 years of America. I would like to feature a special celebration in conjunction with our annual 4th of July fireworks at the lake. Here, the idea is to elevate an already great event and make it stronger than ever. I will be reaching out to the recreational board with my ideas, along with seeking out sponsorship/fundraising opportunities to make this a reality.

So buckle up Ridley Park and prepare yourself– the best is yet to come!