As I write, snow is softly falling outside my office window on Washington Road, with crystal sky jewels floating on the breeze. Delightful people are going about the business of their day, clutching satchels, taking lilting steps and brandishing bright smiles.

Who am I kidding? It’s 4 p.m. on a January Wednesday, deathly gray with a wind-chill of 25 degrees. The snow is pelting and those aren’t smiles on people’s faces – they’re grimaces. No one is meeting gazes because their heads are down, faces behind scarves. When I got my takeout lunch, I even think a dog scowled at me. This is Pittsburgh Awful and I can only hope by the time you are reading this March issue, the sun is bright and you have a spring in your gait.

Yet one thing is not diminished by the seasonally blah weather: the quiet beauty of Washington Road. The shops and restaurants are always cozy and welcoming, and the professionals ensconced in offices are ready and waiting to help, whether you’re at the doctor’s, the hair salon or your lawyer’s.

Over the last few years, Mt. Lebanon has invested heavily in this road, including an infrastructure upgrade that drastically improved sidewalks, lighting, conduit and planter beds with irrigation. During the next stage of Activate Uptown, the Municipality will make it even more enjoyable to be up here on the avenue, with capital expenditures sure to please. I don’t want to spoil the news, so check out Merle Jantz’s story for the details of what is happening first, as well as a look at the dream vision for the future. Commissioner Jeff Siegler’s column provides even more insight.

I’m also thrilled about freelance writer Mark Roth’s comprehensive look at the history and future of Washington Road’s churches. His thoroughly researched story looks at the evolution of these stately houses of worship. He examines the challenges, the wins and losses and gives plenty of hope for tomorrow for our community’s faithful.

From houses of worship to your house: This issue includes one of our two annual Home and Garden guides. It includes lots of great local services to help make the most of your nest.

When you get a chance, take a walk up to Washington Road. Stop in for dinner, gaze at the light displays projected onto the sidewalks or alight on a bench and breathe deeply among the budding greenery. Washington Road is your Main Street, and it’s waiting for you.