August 16, 20231 yr Akron celebrates opening of newly renovated Perkins Woods Pool Updated: Aug. 15, 2023, 12:48 p.m.| Published: Aug. 15, 2023, 12:37 p.m. AKRON, Ohio – Akronites have a new place to cool off starting Tuesday as the city and community celebrated the opening of the newly renovated Perkins Woods Pool, located at 899 Diagonal Rd. The $6 million project took eight months to complete and includes a complete replacement of the pool, as well as the addition of a climbing wall; a shallow water play area; 25-meter lap lanes and a shaded seating area. The project also includes a renovated bathhouse. A 15-foot slide will be added in the future, according to the city. https://www.cleveland.com/akron/2023/08/akron-celebrates-opening-of-newly-renovated-perkins-woods-pool.html?e=04b384150ba93fa19e5b286d3d9842f4&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter_rubber_city_daily 2023-08-16&utm_term=Newsletter_rubber_city_daily
September 8, 20231 yr If the plans for the additional improvements that were canceled are in the city records somewhere it would be cool if, down the line, those improvements were finally completed. Akron's Glendale Steps to be recognized on National Register of Historic Places Ideastream Public Media By Grace Springer Published September 8, 2023 "The Glendale Steps, which connect Glendale Park to the West Hill neighborhood in Akron, have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Constructed in 1937, the steps were added to the register because of their significant Romanesque Revival style architecture and as the work of landscape architect Warren Manning, who is most famous for designing the gardens at Stan Hywet, according to a news release from nonprofit group Progress Through Preservation of Greater Akron. Manning began plans for the steps in 1929, when the Akron Garden Club commissioned him for improvements to the park area, according to the release. The steps finally began construction during the Great Depression in 1936 with Works Progress Administration funding. Other planned improvements to the park were cancelled due to budget problems during the Depression." https://www.ideastream.org/community/2023-09-08/akrons-glendale-steps-to-be-recognized-on-national-register-of-historic-places
September 23, 20231 yr Residences at Good Park progress. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2022/09/22/akron-makes-way-for-residences-at-good-park-on-perkins-middle-school-site-alpha-phi-alpha-homes/69506619007/
September 26, 20231 yr Akron Civic Commons project targets several public spaces for reimagining and investment By Drew Maziasz Published September 25, 2023 Quote In many American cities during the 20th century, populations boomed and industries flourished, but along with that growth for some communities, others experienced disinvestment and a loss of access to public services and green spaces. One illustration of that problem is the fact that some highways and high traffic corridors have severed residential neighborhoods from parks, trails and waterways. In an attempt to remedy some of those historic wrongs, several cities have been selected as sites for massive public and private sector investment. This transformation is referred to as “civic commons.” In Akron, three public spaces are being targeted in a new civic commons project, including the Civic Gateway, near Lock 2, Lock 4, the Akron Civic Theater, the Ohio & Erie Canal Park, which includes green space connected to the towpath trail, and Summit Lake, which is a lake located just two miles south of Downtown Akron. Monday on the “Sound of Ideas,” we’ll discuss the Akron Civic Commons project. Representatives from two of the organizations heading up the investment projects, the Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition and The Knight Foundation will join us as well as a community leader from the Summit Lake Community Development Corporation. https://www.ideastream.org/show/sound-of-ideas/2023-09-25/akron-civic-commons-project-targets-several-public-spaces-for-reimagining-and-investment
September 28, 20231 yr Demolition underway at Weaver School in Tallmadge as Summit DD site ends five-decade run Alan Ashworth Akron Beacon Journal Kline said the site is best suited for public use — such as a sports complex with a field house —rather than commercial or residential development. “I do not think you’ll see a housing development here,” he said. “(It’s) located next to the dispatch center (and) flanked on both sides by public buildings.” https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/09/28/demolition-begins-at-summit-dds-former-weaver-school-in-tallmadge/70930732007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
October 13, 20231 yr Akron begins construction on ARPA-funded $7.8M Patterson Park Community Center Published: Oct. 12, 2023, 2:05 p.m. By Megan Becka, special to cleveland.com "AKRON, Ohio – The city of Akron on Thursday held a groundbreaking event for the new Patterson Park Community Center, located at 800 Patterson Ave. The $7.8 million project is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act and calls for replacing the existing 8,300-square-foot building with a new 12,400-square-foot building. The single-story building will offer more recreational opportunities for community members. Plans for the space call for courts for volleyball, pickleball and basketball, along with meeting rooms, a multipurpose room, a game room, an art/gardening room and a new outdoor playground. Community groups such as Project Learn of Summit County and others will be able to use meeting rooms in the center to fit their needs. The new community center will also include an Americans With Disabilities Act-accessible entry off Patterson Avenue, according to the city." https://www.cleveland.com/akron/2023/10/akron-begins-construction-on-arpa-funded-78m-patterson-park-community-center.html
October 18, 20231 yr The Center Dance + Yoga Studio opens in former building in Kenmore Updated: Oct. 16, 2023, 3:52 p.m.| Published: Oct. 16, 2023, 3:41 p.m. By Megan Becka, special to cleveland.com AKRON, Ohio – The Center Dance + Yoga Studio this month held a ribbon cutting and open house event to celebrate its grand opening in the former Etta Mae Smith Studio of Dance building located at 1015 Kenmore Boulevard in Kenmore. Owner Gina Wilson is new to owning a dance studio but not new to dance – she grew up taking classes at the studio, she said. https://www.cleveland.com/akron/2023/10/the-center-dance-yoga-studio-opens-in-former-building-in-kenmore.html?e=04b384150ba93fa19e5b286d3d9842f4&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter_rubber_city_daily 2023-10-18&utm_term=Newsletter_rubber_city_daily
October 31, 20231 yr Another neighborhood being considered for form-based zoning and neighborhood residents are unenthusiastic. Akron considers new zoning for Middlebury; residents worry about proposed Summa Health development Ideastream Public Media | By Anna Huntsman Published October 30, 2023 "The proposal from Summa Health and developer Fairmount Properties would convert properties owned by the health system near its campus in Akron’s Middlebury neighborhood into a mixed-use retail business district, which would include apartments, stores and a hotel. City council’s planning committee voted to take time on the proposed zoning code change after the public hearing, in which they heard from residents, hospital system officials and the project’s developer. ... The ordinance would change an area of East Market Street to form-based code, a form of zoning that focuses on the character and layout of a community instead of the use of the land itself. Those who support form-based code say it promotes walkability and accessibility." https://www.ideastream.org/government-politics/2023-10-30/akron-considers-new-zoning-for-middlebury-residents-worry-about-proposed-summa-health-development Edited October 31, 20231 yr by Luke_S
October 31, 20231 yr 11 hours ago, Luke_S said: Another neighborhood being considered for form-based zoning and neighborhood residents are unenthusiastic. Many residents opposed to changing the code said they are not against new development and form-based code; rather, their concerns primarily rely with Summa Health’s plan.
October 31, 20231 yr 4 minutes ago, yanni_gogolak said: Many residents opposed to changing the code said they are not against new development and form-based code; rather, their concerns primarily rely with Summa Health’s plan. Sloppy characterization on my part, thank you for pointing out/correcting
October 31, 20231 yr 14 minutes ago, Luke_S said: Sloppy characterization on my part, thank you for pointing out/correcting No worries. The other part that stuck me was this: “Talking to neighbors, we need housing that is affordable and sustainable, and access to food resources," Wilson said. The topic of affordable housing is a huge concern nationally. However, just stating that it is needed is not fixing the problem. There are easy routes to new market rate development that can force a percentage of affordable but that has to start at the administrative level. I have not heard anyone talk about this locally. Is it a topic in Cleveland at all? There is only so much subsidy that can be allocated and it's not meeting the current demand. Also, the retail component could include food access.
October 31, 20231 yr 3 hours ago, yanni_gogolak said: No worries. The other part that stuck me was this: “Talking to neighbors, we need housing that is affordable and sustainable, and access to food resources," Wilson said. The topic of affordable housing is a huge concern nationally. However, just stating that it is needed is not fixing the problem. There are easy routes to new market rate development that can force a percentage of affordable but that has to start at the administrative level. I have not heard anyone talk about this locally. Is it a topic in Cleveland at all? There is only so much subsidy that can be allocated and it's not meeting the current demand. Also, the retail component could include food access. That quote stood out to me as well. I'm not familiar with what the Summa plans are, other than what was mentioned in this article. Has there been a write up before of what they had planned here? Affordable housing is definitely a topic of discussion in Cleveland and there are a couple projects for work-force housing projects like the Woodhill homes project or the Centennial project. Cleveland is experimenting with things like form-based zoning and eliminating parking minimums along high frequency transit routes; but the former Akron is already adopting and the latter I'm not sure if Akron has the same amount of land along its main transit routes or around its stations in the way that Cleveland does. Similar to your point that form-based zoning could would allow for mixed use development potentially improving food access; to address housing needs, the next best thing to building affordable housing is building market rate housing. And Akron could look at redirecting where some of those subsidies are going. Instead of to the developers and builders, the city could freeze the property taxes for current residents or cap the percentage increase so that residents wouldn't be driven out of their neighborhoods as new developments come into the area.
November 1, 20231 yr 18 hours ago, Luke_S said: That quote stood out to me as well. I'm not familiar with what the Summa plans are, other than what was mentioned in this article. Has there been a write up before of what they had planned here? Affordable housing is definitely a topic of discussion in Cleveland and there are a couple projects for work-force housing projects like the Woodhill homes project or the Centennial project. Cleveland is experimenting with things like form-based zoning and eliminating parking minimums along high frequency transit routes; but the former Akron is already adopting and the latter I'm not sure if Akron has the same amount of land along its main transit routes or around its stations in the way that Cleveland does. Similar to your point that form-based zoning could would allow for mixed use development potentially improving food access; to address housing needs, the next best thing to building affordable housing is building market rate housing. And Akron could look at redirecting where some of those subsidies are going. Instead of to the developers and builders, the city could freeze the property taxes for current residents or cap the percentage increase so that residents wouldn't be driven out of their neighborhoods as new developments come into the area. Driving people out of neighborhoods, or as some in Akron would like to claim the "g" word, is not an issue, IMO. Akron is a city that was built for 300k during the rubber boom and now is clawing to get back to 200k. So the infrastructure is there, while it may be crumbling. But housing prices are some of the most affordable in the country. Currently ranked 18th in the country, Akron has been ranked 1st at one point (2015). This is the first I have heard of the new development plan. They had plans done probably 10 years ago now for this same area. The zoning map was included in the paper today: https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/10/31/middlebury-residents-question-plan-to-put-parking-lot-on-lets-grow-akron-garden-site-summa-ymca/71392096007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65 Looks like it is from Rt. 8 on the West up to the McDonald's. https://maps.app.goo.gl/d1SFannQWuCP7bQj7
November 6, 20231 yr A new White Pond mixed-use development proposal would include marijuana dispensary Eric Marotta Akron Beacon Journal An Akron-based medical marijuana company wants to buy 2.6 acres from the city to construct not only a new drive-thru dispensary and headquarters, but also additional retail buildings that would be available for rent on the Wallhaven property. Klutch Cannabis is proposing purchase of the 2.6-acre lot at the vacant corner of White Pond Drive and Naify Boulevard, just south of Sikich LLP and opposite the FirstEnergy West Akron Campus. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/2023/11/04/klutch-cannabis-wants-relocate-headquarters-white-pond-drive-akron-dispensary-medical-marijuana/71419180007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=hero&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
November 14, 20231 yr No new details here, just that City Council passed the ordinance for form-based zoning in Merriman Valley. Akron City Council passes new zoning code for Merriman Valley, Schumacher Area Ideastream Public Media | By Abigail Bottar Published November 13, 2023 Akron City Council passed a new zoning code for the Merriman Valley and Schumacher Area Monday night. The vote changes the zoning code in the area to a form-based code, which advocates say will promote affordable housing, help small businesses and encourage walkability. The new code comes after organizing from advocacy group Preserve the Valley calling for preservation of green space and more intentional development in the Merriman Valley, according to the group. Citizens gathered for several meetings to weigh in on what they want the future of the valley to look like, before Akron, in conjunction with Cuyahoga Falls, released the Merriman Valley Schumacher Area Master Plan. City planners said changing the zoning code is the best way to make the plan come to life. Form-based code focuses on the character, layout and accessibility of a community, rather than land use, according to city planners. It will replace the current code, which is more than 100 years old, city planners said. https://www.ideastream.org/government-politics/2023-11-13/akron-city-council-passes-new-zoning-code-for-merriman-valley-schumacher-area
November 15, 20231 yr Akron donates North Hill parcel to Habitat for Humanity for 16-house development, new park Derek Kreider Akron Beacon Journal Akron City Council approved the donation of a parcel of land to Habitat for Humanity of Summit County at its meeting Monday night. The organization will construct 16 affordable, single-family homes in a development called Silver Maple Ridge on the two-acre vacant lot in North Hill over the course of two years. The western part of the lot will be developed into the first city park in 40 years. The land is at Hollibaugh Avenue and Dan Street. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/11/07/akron-city-council-oks-north-hill-land-donation-for-16-new-habitat-for-humanity-homes-new-park/71482845007/ Looks like someone had been using the site! https://maps.app.goo.gl/YuPAMeaDx4zZ7N2j7
November 20, 20231 yr 'Making an impact': Habitat for Humanity to build 16 homes, new park in Akron's North Hill Derek Kreider Akron Beacon Journal Habitat for Humanity of Summit County is building 16 homes in North Hill. The homes are being subsidized by federal dollars. Construction will happen in three stages and is expected to wrap in 2025. Habitat for Humanity of Summit County President and CEO Rochelle Sibbio fielded a call recently from someone asking how they could get a "free" home. She took the time to correct the caller. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/11/18/habitat-for-humanity-to-build-16-homes-new-park-in-north-hill-in-akron/71437477007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=hero&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
November 29, 20231 yr Akron approves Summa Health development despite residents' concerns Ideastream Public Media | By Anna Huntsman Published November 28, 2023 Quote Akron is moving forward with a housing and business district proposed by Summa Health in one of the city’s underserved neighborhoods. ... The proposal from Summa Health and developer Fairmount Properties would convert sites owned by the health system near its campus in Akron’s Middlebury neighborhood into apartments, stores and a hotel. City council unanimously passed a request Monday to change an area of East Market Street to form-based code, a form of zoning that focuses on the character and layout of a community instead of the use of the land itself. Council approved the first use of form-based code in Akron for the Merriman Valley and Shumacher area in mid-November. https://www.ideastream.org/government-politics/2023-11-28/akron-approves-summa-health-development-despite-residents-concerns
December 4, 20231 yr Akron releases report, recommendations on next steps for decommissioned Innerbelt Ideastream Public Media | By Abigail Bottar Published December 4, 202 Akron has released a report and recommendations on the history and future of the Innerbelt. The report, titled "Reconnecting Our Community Phase 1 Innerbelt Report," includes the history of the Innerbelt, the community engagement work from the Reconnecting Our Community initiative and recommendations for short and long term opportunities, according to a press release from the city. ... The report also details both short term, one to three years, and long term, six plus years, recommendations for the Innerbelt. Short term recommendations include creating a master plan, issuing an apology from the city, providing tools to help community members work through their grief and developing an interim use strategy. Long term recommendations include converting city owned land into a community land trust, exploring the creation of a community restoration fund and creating a Black cultural district. The city plans to lead further community engagement on the report in the coming weeks. In 2024, the city will open the request for qualifications process to engage a master planning team. The master plan will be funded by a federal Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods grant from the United States Department of Transportation and will focus on how to transform the 1-mile section of the Innerbelt. https://www.ideastream.org/government-politics/2023-12-04/akron-releases-report-recommendations-on-next-steps-for-decommissioned-innerbelt
December 4, 20231 yr On 11/29/2023 at 7:16 AM, Luke_S said: Akron approves Summa Health development despite residents' concerns Ideastream Public Media | By Anna Huntsman Published November 28, 2023 https://www.ideastream.org/government-politics/2023-11-28/akron-approves-summa-health-development-despite-residents-concerns WOW, kind of surprised. Council approved the first use of form-based code in Akron for the Merriman Valley and Shumacher area in mid-November. Also, Kenmore Blvd. has had a form based code overlay for about 5 years.
December 6, 20231 yr 'Malls aren't dying': These new stores are coming to Summit Mall in 2024 Alan Ashworth Akron Beacon Journal Sports clothing retailers Lululemon and J.D. Sports both opening in 2024 Kids Empire location to open in mall's old theater space One original tenant from opening 58 years ago remains Kyle Hersh wants you to know Summit Mall in Fairlawn is thriving and has the tenants and the traffic to prove it. In fact, some new retailers came just in time for the holiday season shopping sprint, and other popular names are landing in early 2024 to get the New Year off to a quick start. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/12/06/summit-mall-fairlawn-thriving-with-new-stores-and-more-on-the-way-in-2024/71728308007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=hero&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
December 30, 20231 yr Federal court approves Akron's plan to build 'right sized' sewer tunnel Ideastream Public Media | By Abigail Bottar Published December 29, 2023 Akron has the go-ahead to construct a 16.5-foot diameter, 1 mile long tunnel to control sewer overflow, according to the city. ... The U.S. EPA wanted the Northside Interceptor Tunnel to be 24 feet in diameter, but the city said the new design is the correct size and will save taxpayers $50 million. The tunnel will prevent the sewer system from overflowing even when rainfalls are more heavy than normal. ... Akron is waiting to hear back on a fourth amendment asking the U.S. EPA to eliminate a $209 million water treatment facility in favor of remediating or removing aging septic systems in the city. https://www.ideastream.org/environment-energy/2023-12-29/federal-court-approves-akrons-plan-to-build-smaller-sewer-tunnel
January 19, 20241 yr Speculative rumors already starting to swirl as a result of the announced acquisition of Summa Health by HATco. Anyone have thoughts on what this sale might mean for the proposed development near Summa's main campus? I would assume that's on ice now. Akron's St. Thomas Hospital could become affordable apartments January 19, 2024 DAN SHINGLER Quote Akron could get a large, new affordable housing project following the pending acquisition of Summa Health by General Catalyst’s Health Assurance Transformation Corp. ... Welty CEO Don Taylor declined to discuss whether he has had dealings with Summa on the issue, but he confirmed he’s interested in the site. Taylor said he hopes he can work with General Catalyst, assuming it completes its just-announced pending of Summa, to acquire and redevelop St. Thomas. ... For example, when asked what it would cost to convert St. Thomas to apartments, Taylor quickly estimated $200,000 to $225,000 per unit, which he said would add up to more than $100 million in development costs for the 500 or more apartments he thinks could be created at the site. https://www.crainscleveland.com/real-estate/former-akron-hospital-eyed-site-affordable-housing
January 22, 20241 yr On 1/19/2024 at 1:20 PM, Luke_S said: Speculative rumors already starting to swirl as a result of the announced acquisition of Summa Health by HATco. Anyone have thoughts on what this sale might mean for the proposed development near Summa's main campus? I would assume that's on ice now. Akron's St. Thomas Hospital could become affordable apartments January 19, 2024 DAN SHINGLER https://www.crainscleveland.com/real-estate/former-akron-hospital-eyed-site-affordable-housing A deal of this size didn't happen overnight. I assume the new development was actually used to show perceived value.
January 26, 20241 yr Want to see improvements to North Main Street in Akron? Here’s how to give feedback Published: Jan. 25, 2024 By Megan Becka, special to cleveland.com AKRON, Ohio – Akron is asking community members to weigh in as it moves forward with creating plans for several roadway safety improvements on North Main Street between the All-America Bridge and the High-Level Bridge over the Gorge (northern city limit). The city has partnered with the Environmental Design Group on the safety improvement projects, which were first shared during the Akron Better Block initiative in 2015. The projects are the culmination of years of study and public engagement, and focus on making the road safe for all users, particularly pedestrians and bicyclists, according to the city. Per the National Environmental Policy Act, the city is seeking comments from the public about the social, environmental and economic impacts of the proposed project. Community members can share their feedback online or in person on Feb. 3 at 11 a.m. at the North Hill library branch, 183 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. During the meeting, Environmental Design Group will share the proposed projects and seek comments from community members. https://www.cleveland.com/akron/2024/01/want-to-see-improvements-to-north-main-street-in-akron-heres-how-to-give-feedback.html
January 30, 20241 yr Old Goodyear buildings torn down in Akron: What we know about the River Street demolition Mark J. Price Akron Beacon Journal A mighty swath of Akron’s industrial past is tumbling to the ground. Wreckers are steadily chipping away at a seven-story behemoth at the old Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. complex. As of Monday, about 75% of the 600,000-square-foot plant had been demolished. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/2024/01/30/former-goodyear-mixing-center-demolished-in-akron/72389033007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=hero&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
January 31, 20241 yr So no plans for development of the former plant site yet then? Whatever they end up doing, but especially since this will be green space, at least in the near-term, I would like to see them daylight this section of the Little Cuyahoga.
January 31, 20241 yr 12 hours ago, Luke_S said: So no plans for development of the former plant site yet then? Whatever they end up doing, but especially since this will be green space, at least in the near-term, I would like to see them daylight this section of the Little Cuyahoga. I thought a while back they said it was going to be a parking lot. I could be wrong.
January 31, 20241 yr 16 minutes ago, yanni_gogolak said: I thought a while back they said it was going to be a parking lot. I could be wrong. I sure hope that's not the endgame! From the end of the article: Harris expects the demolition to be completed by mid-February and the debris to be removed by late summer. The site will become a greenspace until East End decides a future use for the property.
February 3, 20241 yr ‘I remember the smell’: Old Wonder Bread building to be demolished by Arielle Kass February 2, 2024 The smell of baking bread permeated the area for years, until baking stopped in 2010 and the University of Akron acquired the building in 2011. Now, the university plans to tear the factory down, saying it has outlived its usefulness. The 1920s building at 178 S. Forge St. has mostly been used for storage in recent years. There’s still a three-story oven in the middle of the 78,000-square-foot structure, said Stephen Myers, the university’s chief planning and facilities officer. He said he expects demolition to begin soon and be completed in May. The university doesn’t have a plan for building on the footprint at this time, and Myers said it will remain as greenspace “for the foreseeable future.” https://signalakron.org/wonder-bread-building-university-akron-demolished/
February 9, 20241 yr Goodyear Heights community center to get $5.1 million renovation by Kevin Dilley and Akron Documenters February 9, 2024 Renovation plans for the 85-year-old Reservoir Park Community Center in Goodyear Heights moved forward this week after two public hearings and positive support from a key Akron group. ... The city has dedicated $5.1 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to the renovation project, which includes replacement of a 1990s addition and upgrades to the outdoor pool, among other items. The city solicited public input from two open houses held Tuesday Feb. 6 at the center. Residents were able to view plans and share their thoughts with staff members. https://signalakron.org/goodyear-heights-community-center-to-get-5-1-million-renovation/
February 14, 20241 yr Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links owner plans 80 houses for property, including 1 for himself Alan Ashworth Akron Beacon Journal The owner of Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links has unveiled his plans for the first phase of a development on the New Franklin side of the golf course. Local businessman Tim Adkins purchased the property about a year ago, promising to preserve 18 holes of the 27-hole golf course while developing lakefront property in New Franklin. According to Summit County property records, Adkins paid about $8.15 million for the site. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/02/14/turkeyfoot-lake-golf-links-unveils-first-phase-of-development-plans-new-franklin/72584979007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=hero&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
February 26, 20241 yr 'When can I write you a check?': Interest soars in Water 9 development in Portage Lakes Alan Ashworth Akron Beacon Journal When local businessman and novice developer Tim Adkins went public earlier this month about his plans for Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links, he expected some interest in the Water 9 project on nine holes of the golf course. The Portage Lakes course had been the target of a national developer with plans for 470 homes crammed onto the 27-hole course. One lot, No. 34, has sold at $650,000, although the others remain on hold until plans gel further. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/02/26/turkeyfoot-lake-homes-project-attracts-big-response-for-tim-adkins-plx-portage-lakes-water-9/72701375007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=hero&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
February 27, 20241 yr A lot coming down in Akron recently... Former home of historic Akron Baptist Temple is headed for the wrecking ball Ideastream Public Media | By Anna Huntsman Published February 26, 2024 Akron City Council unanimously approved funding for the emergency demolition of The Word Church, formerly Akron Baptist Temple, on Manchester Road in the city’s Kenmore neighborhood. Akron Baptist Temple was founded in 1934 and The Word Church purchased the building in 2018. The Word Church, which operates several locations in Northeast Ohio, never fully moved into the building and put it up for sale. The church was heavily looted during the pandemic and is now considered a safety hazard, Mayor Shammas Malik said in a Monday news release. https://www.ideastream.org/community/2024-02-26/former-home-of-historic-akron-baptist-temple-headed-for-the-wrecking-ball
February 27, 20241 yr Huge demolition project in Akron: How you can watch by: Celeste Houmard Posted: Feb 26, 2024 The Summit County Land Bank has announced the demolition of the former Atlantic Foundry in Akron. The building, located on 182 Beaver Street, has become an area that is unsafe for the community, according to a press release from the Summit County Land Bank. ... The demolition, funded by the Ohio Brownfield Remediation Program, will begin on March 7 at 3 p.m., with the viewing area on Annandale Avenue, overlooking the 254,826 square-foot site. https://fox8.com/news/viewing-event-akron-atlantic-foundry-site-to-be-demolished-in-march/
March 1, 20241 yr Sherrod Brown leads the charge as Akron angles for $70 million in polymer funding Dan Shingler February 29th 2024 U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes of Akron and other local members of Congress are pushing for the federal government to fund the regional polymer hub being proposed by the Greater Akron Chamber and other players in the important regional industry. At stake are tens of millions of dollars that local economic developers say could improve the region’s already strong polymer industry and cement its importance nationally. The industry includes big rubber companies such as Goodyear Tire & Rubber, along with hundreds of other local businesses involved in plastics, paints and coatings, and a plethora of products and materials based on polymer science and engineering. It also would support schools that are prominent in those disciplines, such as the University of Akron and Case Western Reserve University. https://www.crainscleveland.com/manufacturing/congress-members-urge-support-ohio-polymer-hub
March 5, 20241 yr 1 hour ago, yanni_gogolak said: That would be a great get! U of Akron could particularly use a W right now it seems.
March 7, 20241 yr What's happening at the Akron Baptist Church site? City provides demolition update Derek Kreider Akron Beacon Journal Akron's plan to level the site of one of the country's first megachurches is moving full speed ahead. The former Akron Baptist Temple campus, most recently known as The Word Church, is just a few weeks away from demolition, Mayor Shammas Malik confirmed Tuesday alongside several city officials. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/03/07/akron-baptist-temple-site-demolition-will-begin-march-20-city-says/72762167007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
March 18, 20241 yr Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links developer Tim Adkins buys Crouse farm land in Green Alan Ashworth Akron Beacon Journal Local businessman Tim Adkins said Tuesday he has added to his Portage Lakes holdings with the purchase of a section of the Crouse family farm in Green. Adkins, who owns The Basement restaurants and the Upper Deck in New Franklin, said he signed papers Monday to purchase 27.5 acres of the historical farm. The land includes about 1,800 feet of frontage on the lakes, he said. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/03/13/water-9-developer-reaches-deal-for-27-5-acres-of-crouse-farm-in-green/72942369007/?utm_source=nabj-newsletter_dailybriefing&utm_content=daily briefing - akron&utm_campaign=newsletter_dailybriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_term=adhoc https://maps.app.goo.gl/NWaJkd9ATGpmsDZr8 https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2023/10/31/historic-portage-lakes-crouse-farm-property-for-sale-in-green/71305382007/
March 19, 20241 yr On 3/7/2024 at 9:01 AM, yanni_gogolak said: What's happening at the Akron Baptist Church site? City provides demolition update Derek Kreider Akron Beacon Journal Akron's plan to level the site of one of the country's first megachurches is moving full speed ahead. The former Akron Baptist Temple campus, most recently known as The Word Church, is just a few weeks away from demolition, Mayor Shammas Malik confirmed Tuesday alongside several city officials. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/03/07/akron-baptist-temple-site-demolition-will-begin-march-20-city-says/72762167007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65 Et sic incipit. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/03/19/demolition-of-the-former-akron-baptist-temple-begins/72993120007/
April 8, 20241 yr New funds boost Portage Lakes State Park visitors center, Tudor House in New Franklin Alan Ashworth Akron Beacon Journal Portage Lakes Park Visitors Center timeline Adamson said the planned visitors center project isn't that far off. "ODNR wants to have this constructed by the end of next year," he said. He said the center will make the park even more of a destination spot for area residents. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/04/06/recreation-may-be-our-primary-industry-says-new-franklin-mayor/72963093007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
April 16, 20241 yr UPDATE: White Pond At my March Coffee with Councilman Hardy ward meeting, we heard from Mayor Malik's Director of Economic Development, Suzie Graham-Moore, about the White Pond developments. https://www.ward8akron.com/news/update-white-pond
April 17, 20241 yr Plan to turn Sherbondy Hill vacant lots into homes gains traction: Akron Planning Commission also supports North Hill renewal plan that may lead to housing development; projects could lead to 65 new single-family homes. by Kevin Dilley and Akron Documenters April 17, 2024 The Akron Planning Commission approved a request April 12 for the sale of more than seven acres of city-owned vacant lots in the Sherbondy Hill neighborhood to a home developer that promises to build single-family homes. Fifty-two lots will be sold to K. Hovnanian Ohio Operations, LLC for 25 cents per square foot — the lots comprise 308,753 square feet and the total cost would be about $77,000. ... The Meridian Urban Renewal Plan allows the city to move forward with the redevelopment of the area, which would include the development of new single-family homes. The area is a 4.77 acre plot of land at the south end of Meridian Street off East Tallmadge Avenue. https://signalakron.org/plan-to-turn-sherbondy-hill-vacant-lots-into-homes-gains-traction/
April 18, 20241 yr LOCAL Akron's Chapel Hill Business Park, formerly the Chapel Hill Mall, by the numbers Patrick Williams Akron Beacon Journal The former Chapel Hill Mall, located in Akron between Brittain Road, Buchholzer Boulevard, and Howe and Independence avenues, has been transformed into a business park now owned by Industrial Commercial Properties and Storage of America. Here's a look at the business park by the numbers. 900,000 square feet: Size of former Chapel Hill Mall 715,000 square feet: Size of the complex now owned by ICP at 2000 Brittain Road 60 acres: Land owned by ICP 169,000 square feet: Size of building owned by Storage of America at the former Macy's 8 acres: Land owned by Storage of America 40,826 square feet: Square footage that remains available for lease in the business park Four: Number of new businesses in the complex since the mall closed in 2021 (Storage of America bought the former Macy's in 2019) https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/04/18/ohio-chapel-hill-business-park-mall-news-how-much-land-square-feet/73343082007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
April 22, 20241 yr 'We're part of revitalizing retail': Former Chapel Hill Mall gets second life Patrick Williams Akron Beacon Journal Standing in the space that used to be Chapel Hill Mall’s JCPenney, Adam Berkley recalled that he and his now-wife’s first date 30 years ago was to see “Grumpy Old Men” at the mall’s General Cinema. “That's hilarious that you remember that,” his colleague, Greg Brumbaugh, said of the movie name drop. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/04/18/chapel-hill-mall-ohio-updates-business-park-former-macys-industrial-commercial-properties/73279002007/?utm_source=nabj-newsletter_dailybriefing&utm_content=daily briefing - akron&utm_campaign=newsletter_dailybriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_term=adhoc
April 25, 20241 yr I haven't seen any reporting elsewhere that the City of Akron or Summit County have any of their own initiatives to restore the tree canopy, so hopefully they step up to support the effort by Keep Akron Beautiful. I would think Summit County Metro Parks and the Summit Soil and Water Conservation District would also be natural partners too. Akron nonprofit initiates campaign to restore city's tree canopy Ideastream Public Media | By Jenna Bal Published April 25, 2024 Quote A nonprofit dedicated to the beautification of Akron is launching a new initiative to reverse an ongoing concern over the declining number of trees in the city. According to Keep Akron Beautiful, the city’s tree canopy is currently at 34% and is only expected to drop from there. The group predicts 30% coverage by 2040. In order to reverse the decline in the number of trees in Akron, the group is kicking off its Planting Change campaign Saturday at Hardesty Park. Its goal is to plant 100,000 trees by 2034 with the hope of maintaining a balanced ecosystem and restoring Akron’s green space. https://www.ideastream.org/environment-energy/2024-04-25/akron-nonprofit-initiates-campaign-to-restore-citys-tree-canopy
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