The cherry blossoms are peaking in Cherry Hill, NJ (Photos)

Chapel Avenue’s beautiful two-mile stretch of cherry blossom trees in Cherry Hill, N.J., are now in full bloom.

Around 1472 cherry trees that line Chapel Avenue between Haddonfield Avenue and Kings Highway became a continuous avenue of blooming pink petals. Adorned with American flags and yellow ribbons these cherry trees also serve as a tribute and a remembrance of September 11, 2001 tragedy.

Forty-two years ago a small group of residents decided to make a commitment and unify a diverse community divided by major highways as well as criticism in the media. Trying to fight a negative image of Cherry Hill, Mayors, council members, civic group leaders and residents all gathered to find a solution that would bring out all the positive attributes that the town had to offer. It was decided that cherry blossoms planted throughout the township would transcend over the dividing highways and become a common denominator for Cherry Hill’s residents.

The first cherry blossom tree was planted on March 1973 with a big parade. And even though a “Cherry Blossom Parade” was discontinued in 1992 every year the cherry blossoms become a beacon for residents to take pride in their community.