Aden Street reopens in Adhamiyah

Photo By Scott Flenner | A car passes through the gate marking the entrance to the Shalal Market following a grand reopening ribbon cutting ceremony Dec. 21. Aden Street, which the market surrounds, was closed to vehicular traffic in 2007 following a string of deadly car bombings.  

IRAQ

12.22.2008

Story by Scott Flenner 

3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

By Scott Flenner
3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

SHA'AB, Iraq – Aden Street was once a desolate place blocked on all sides and where businesses struggled to make ends meet. Now, the street in the Adhamiyah District reopened with the ceremonial ribbon cutting Dec. 21.

Aden Street splits the Shalal Market in northeastern Baghdad and fell victim to multiple car bombs in 2007 that killed numerous civilians and damaged various storefronts. Following these events, the Iraqi national police and coalition forces decided to block off and close the street to local traffic, making it a safe market to help protect and ensure the safety of the people.

Now, with the added security and reduction in violence that is fostering throughout the country, and especially in the Adhamiyah District, the decision was made to open the street once again.

"We have been trying since August to get this street open," said Capt. Kevin Kahre, commander, Company D, 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, Multi-National Division-Baghdad. "It is safe here now; we are opening up the street."

The street opening not only shows security progress in the area, but it also will bring much needed commerce into the area and stimulate the economy due to the increased ease of access to Shalal Market.

"Opening this street will provide improvement in traffic flow and access to the market," said Kahre, a native of Evansville, Ind.

Opening Aden Street was an important event for all of Iraq, and especially for the national policemen from 3rd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 1st NP Division, who have been providing security on Aden Street for the past year.

"I want everyone to know about the opening of this street," said Maj. Gen. Muzir, who commands the 11th Iraqi Army Division and who cut the ceremonial ribbon marking the opening of Aden Street.

• Date Taken: 12.22.2008
• Date Posted: 12.22.2008 05:05
• Story ID: 27987
• Location: IQ