Kevin Smith to get his ‘Way’ in Paulsboro

Kevin Smith to get his ‘Way’ in Paulsboro
By Brian Arrington

PAULSBORO — Though it may be a while until “Jersey Girl” director Kevin Smith wins an Academy Award, it looks like the bearded movie maker is going to have a street named after him.

Mayor John Burzichelli confirmed rumors Wednesday that plans are in the works to honor Smith with his own street, turning Tyler Street into Kevin Smith Way.

Burzichelli said since filming of the Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck flick “Jersey Girl” began in several locales in the riverfront borough last month, the profile of the working-class community has increased and naming a street after Smith was a fitting way to honor him.

“He has brought a level of excitement and has exposed the neighborhood and residents in the neighborhoods to something different,” Burzichelli said. “People have enjoyed it and we just want to commemorate his contribution.”

Tyler Street was tapped to be Smith’s street because it leads to the entrance of Paulsboro High School — the location of several scenes shot in the community — and will be seen by many residents who attend sporting events there.

It also could be because no one calls the two-block street home.

Linda Martin has lived on the corner of Tyler and North Delaware streets for four years and said the change won’t affect her in any way.

“I don’t know who Tyler was and I don’t know who Kevin Smith is,” she said. “It wouldn’t make a difference to me.”

Mike McMahon, a 14-year-old whose brother was in a baseball scene, was skateboarding down Tyler Street Wednesday when he was told about the plan.

“That’s that ‘Silent Bob’ guy, right?” McMahon asked, referring to Smith’s recurring, mostly mute character.

Burzichelli said details about renaming the street have yet to be finalized but could be by early next week.

Representatives at Smith’s production company, View Askew, declined to comment.