May 1, 20241 yr Akron loses federal appeal on final phase of sewer project — water, sewer rates could rise by 23% by Doug Brown May 1, 2024 The City of Akron lost a costly ruling in federal court that it says will mean an immediate 23% increase in water and sewer bills. Unless the city is successful in its appeal, the March 1 decision will force the completion of the final phase of the Akron sewer project, known as Akron Waterways Renewed!, at a cost of $209 million for a wastewater treatment facility it has fought against having to build. U.S. District Court Judge John Adams sided with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on March 1, ruling the City of Akron has no legal basis to amend its federal consent decree. Now, the city must build the enhanced high-rate treatment facility (EHRT), which would be added on to Akron’s wastewater treatment facility, to treat wastewater overflows into the Cuyahoga River, he said. https://signalakron.org/akron-loses-federal-appeal-on-final-phase-of-sewer-project-water-sewer-rates-could-rise-by-23/
May 1, 20241 yr Here are a few older posts related to Akron's appeal to amend the EPA consent decree. At the time I think I was in favor, but given that large rain events are becoming more common I think the justification for the EHRT increases. I'm not certain, but I assume, Mayor Horrigan's 2-3 times a year is based on an average of historic rain fall, not projected. With the health of a river, remediation efforts need to be thought of in terms of "and" and not "or". The merit of Akron installing the EHRT system needs to be considered by the benefits of that system's effect on the health of the river alone and not whether we could capture an equivalent amount of waste through other remediation efforts-i.e. installing a sewer system in Peninsula. That said, Akron has take some other positive efforts to mitigate the effects of storm water run off. On 7/18/2023 at 9:37 PM, Luke_S said: Akron Mayor Horrigan, with support of the Ohio EPA, requests to be released from the 2 remaining criteria of the US EPA consent decree to control it's sewer and stormwater runoff. Akron is proposing 4 alternative stormwater interventions costing roughly a combined $50m instead of building an enhanced high-rate treatment facility near the Towpath Trail north of downtown near the Little Cuyahoga River, costing around $200m. Akron takes on U.S. EPA over sewer mandates Dan Shingler July 18th 2023 "The city has spent more than $1 billion so far trying to satisfy federal mandates that at one point were projected to cost Akron more than $1.5 billion, before it came up with some creative ways to get those costs down. At a news conference on Tuesday, July 18, held along the Towpath Trail north of downtown near the Little Cuyahoga River, Horrigan said that’s enough and drew his line in the sand. ... With all but two of the 26 federally mandated components of the entire project completed, Horrigan said Akron has gotten the results it and the Cuyahoga River watershed need. ... Those alternatives include reducing discharge by treating wastewater at the city’s existing facility on Cuyahoga Street; adding sewers to the village of Peninsula in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park; working to provide sanitary sewer service to the Sawyerwood neighborhood in Springfield Township; and addressing sewer overflows to Springfield Lake from the village of Lakemore." https://www.crainscleveland.com/akron-news/akron-fights-us-epa-over-huge-sewer-mandate On 8/5/2023 at 9:04 AM, Luke_S said: I would assume this is being done now, at least in part, to strengthen Akron's appeal to the US EPA that they should be released from the last two covenants in the consent decree. Whatever the reason, I think this is probably a step in the right direction, though I would like to see more details/specifics. "The city is seeking feedback on the plan by Sep. 8. Public comments can be sent via email to [email protected] or via the city's Zencity Engage Platform." Akron proposes riparian setback ordinance to protect land surrounding waterways Ideastream Public Media | By Abigail Bottar Published August 4, 2023 "Akron is seeking feedback on a proposed ordinance that would protect land surrounding waterways. The plan would positively impact the health of Akron’s rivers and streams. The city is proposing a riparian setback ordinance, which would increase protection of land surrounding the city’s waterways. The setbacks would reduce the impact of runoff, as well as several other environmental benefits. ... The ordinance would not outlaw existing structures within the proposed setbacks but instead would regulate any new plans." https://www.ideastream.org/environment-energy/2023-08-04/akron-proposes-riparian-setback-ordinance-to-protect-land-surrounding-waterways On 12/30/2023 at 8:34 AM, Luke_S said: 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
May 2, 20241 yr Community 'benefit' or 'slaughtered' land? What we know about the White Pond development Patrick Williams Akron Beacon Journal Developer Triton Property Ventures is grading land and about a week away from laying slab foundations for ranch homes and townhomes at White Pond Reserve in Akron. The first phase of construction at the development, east of Interstate 77 and west of White Pond Drive, comes 18 years after the city of Akron first purchased the land and nearly a year and a half after City Council narrowly approved the development and land sale to Triton by a 7-6 vote. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/05/02/questions-white-pond-reserve-development-answered-triton-property-ventures-lead-for-pollinators/73386314007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=hero&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
May 2, 20241 yr One of the issues that Colopy said she sees with the development is that the removal of trees takes away a possible habitat for bats. The environment could have supported endangered bats. In 2023, cave expert Dr. Hazel Barton found bat guano while surveying a nearby cave with her then-students at the University of Akron. At the time, Barton was associate dean for research and graduate studies at UA’s Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences. (She has since joined the University of Alabama as Loper Endowed Professor of Geological Sciences.) Amazing....
May 2, 20241 yr Good that Akron is building beyond the opposition of Nimby's and tree-huggers. That location has been nothing but an eyesore looking off of i-77 for years. Now hopefully someone will develop the land west off i-77 where Graf growers have occupied.
May 2, 20241 yr I’m glad this is moving forward. Is there an address? I can’t quite picture the location of this plot of land.
May 3, 20241 yr 23 hours ago, jeremyck01 said: I’m glad this is moving forward. Is there an address? I can’t quite picture the location of this plot of land. Across the street from the FirstEnergy West Campus. https://maps.app.goo.gl/qb8heXh53mhUAqNJ9
May 3, 20241 yr 4 hours ago, yanni_gogolak said: Across the street from the FirstEnergy West Campus. https://maps.app.goo.gl/qb8heXh53mhUAqNJ9 Thank you.
May 22, 20241 yr Legislative Highlights From Monday, May 20, 2024 Ordinance 188-2024 approving the historic designation of 816 E. Market Street (Homeier-Universal Building) as a historic landmark; and declaring an emergency. Vote: 13-0. The Homeier-Universal Building was constructed in 1919 as a large three story shop with attached showroom for a Ford automobile dealership. At one time, this was the largest operating Ford dealership in Akron. The Urban Design and Historic Preservation Commission reviewed the designation on March 5, 2024, and recommended approval. Learn more about the Urban Design and Historic Preservation Commission here. https://maps.app.goo.gl/RUKjCjawGub1Prv17
June 21, 2024Jun 21 Akron City Council approves developer's plan to build 20 new homes in North Hill area Patrick Williams Akron Beacon Journal Akron City Council approved a plan last week to develop 20 single-family homes in Akron’s North Hill neighborhood. The Meridian Urban Renewal Area plan permits Testa Enterprises to develop the homes on 4.77 acres at the southern end of Meridian Street, which is south of East Tallmadge Avenue and east of state Route 8. Meridian Street will also be extended further south to end in a cul-de-sac. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/06/21/vacant-lot-off-akron-meridian-street-being-converted-to-20-home-site/74075148007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=hero&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
June 21, 2024Jun 21 More coming down in Akron, with some preservation. City asks to tear down most of historic Firestone Plant 1 by Bryan Pepper and Akron Documenters June 21, 2024 The City of Akron is seeking to demolish a portion of the former Firestone Tire and Rubber Company Plant 1 building that was built in 1910 because it can’t find a buyer to renovate the building and because it contains “high levels of contamination and asbestos,” according to city planners. ... The rear three wings (an aerial view of the building shows that it is made up of four side-by-side wings) will be demolished, while the entire front of the building, including the iconic clock tower, will be preserved. ... In October 2023, the city said it was seeking $12 million in grants for several demolition projects including the Firestone building, the Word Church and 125 vacant homes. https://signalakron.org/city-asks-to-tear-down-most-of-historic-firestone-plant-1/
June 24, 2024Jun 24 Ended up at Showcase Meats and didn't realize it was right across the street from Word Church demo, nearly gone at this point. Edited June 24, 2024Jun 24 by GISguy
June 26, 2024Jun 26 City of Akron to help fund joint search for ready-to-develop land by Reegan Davis Saunders June 25, 2024 Akron City Council agreed Monday to pay $100,000 toward finding ready-to-develop land in Greater Akron as part of an understanding it entered with four area partners and a private donor. The city’s contribution is part of $1.3 million that will be used to fund the Greater Akron Site Development Fund, which also includes $100,000 from Summit County, $25,000 from the Greater Akron Chamber, $50,000 from the GAR Foundation and $25,000 from the Summit County Land Bank. The largest chunk, $1 million, comes from the private donor, who is requesting anonymity. The funding will be used to continue to analyze available land in Greater Akron, a process that was started previously, specifically on sites that have commercial or industrial potential. Site analysis will be targeted toward plots of land in the city and the “first ring suburbs” around the city, according to the resolution City Council passed Monday night. https://signalakron.org/city-of-akron-to-help-fund-joint-search-for-ready-to-develop-land-gar-summit-county-land-bank-greater-akron-chamber/
July 3, 2024Jul 3 White Pond updates: Marijuana dispensary and Sikich out, new housing development underway Patrick Williams Akron Beacon Journal One business has left a building on White Pond Drive in Akron, and another has withdrawn its plans to build a new headquarters there. Chicago-based professional services firm Sikich moved one of its offices from the 274 White Pond Drive address in November to a Richfield office, said Jason Tuma, principal of assurance services and Northeast Ohio market lead at the firm, via email. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/business/2024/07/03/white-pond-drive-akron-news-updates-sikich-klutch-marijuana-dispensary-housing-development/74198350007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=hero&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
July 4, 2024Jul 4 James Hardy has resigned as Ward 8 councilman. https://www.akroncitycouncil.org/news/akron-city-council-ward-8-council-member-submits-resignation I don't know what changes in his professional life he's referencing, but I hate to lose him from Council representing my ward. He was generally a very levelheaded voice even when I didn't always agree with him on policy, and sight unseen, it'll be hard for the next Ward 8 rep to live up to that standard.
July 8, 2024Jul 8 On 7/4/2024 at 12:33 AM, Gramarye said: James Hardy has resigned as Ward 8 councilman. https://www.akroncitycouncil.org/news/akron-city-council-ward-8-council-member-submits-resignation I don't know what changes in his professional life he's referencing, but I hate to lose him from Council representing my ward. He was generally a very levelheaded voice even when I didn't always agree with him on policy, and sight unseen, it'll be hard for the next Ward 8 rep to live up to that standard. Looks like in February he was promoted to Interim Deputy Director at he Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. He has worked there since leaving the City of Akron.
July 12, 2024Jul 12 Demolition underway of former St. Thomas Hospital in Akron. What's next for site? Patrick Williams Akron Beacon Journal St. Thomas Hospital, owned by Summa Health, is being razed, and a hospital executive said the demolition will likely continue through the end of the year. St. Thomas Hospital is a historic Akron landmark with a history dating back more than 100 years. Future use of the site has not been determined, a Summa spokeswoman said. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/07/12/st-thomas-hospital-akron-demolition-underway/74364243007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65 Hilton Fairlawn doubles down on service commitment with change to DoubleTree, renovations Isabella Schreck Akron Beacon Journal Starting Friday, guests at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn can expect a warm, gooey DoubleTree cookie along with greetings from smiling staff when checking in at the front desk. Rennick Andreoli, president of RDA Hotel Management Company that owns the Hilton, said the hotel off 3180 W. Market St. is repositioning itself as a DoubleTree − 54 years after its opening.' https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/07/12/hilton-akronfairlawn-on-west-market-street-to-change-to-doubletree/74356975007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65 More Rite Aid stores in Akron area confirm plans to close. Where will prescriptions go? Patrick Williams Akron Beacon Journal All Rite Aid stores in Summit, Medina and Portage counties are closing as the company progresses through Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Following the Beacon Journal's reporting of Rite Aids closing in Tallmadge, on E. Waterloo Road in Akron, in the Portage Lakes area of Green and in Barberton, the Beacon Journal on Thursday confirmed the rest of the closures with store associates at individual stores. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/business/2024/07/11/rite-aid-bankruptcy-case-greater-akron-sites-closing-wadsworth-medina-cuyahoga-falls-garrettsville/74369536007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=hero&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
July 16, 2024Jul 16 Akron Zoo announces plans for $12M animal hospital Published: Jul. 15, 2024 By Megan Becka, special to cleveland.com AKRON, Ohio – The Akron Zoo on Monday announced it plans to build a 11,949 square-foot animal hospital, with work expected to begin next year. The $11.95 million project is scheduled to be open in 2026, according to a news release. The new hospital will be located behind the Landon & Cynthia Knight Pride of Africa area along Diagonal Road. The new hospital will allow the zoo to provide care for its 2,000 resident animals, including check-ups, management of diseases and chronic conditions, surgeries and end-of-life care. Plans for the hospital call for a state-of-the-art surgery suite, an intensive care unit and specialized areas to provide care for the zoo’s myriad species, such as birds, animals with hooves, primates and large carnivores. https://www.cleveland.com/akron/2024/07/akron-zoo-announces-plans-for-12m-animal-hospital.html
July 18, 2024Jul 18 Springfield OKs preliminary Amazon delivery station plan July 18, 2024 By Staff Writer SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Township Trustees July 11 approved a preliminary development plan for an Amazon delivery station on Picton Parkway in the Planned Industrial Park District at the southeast corner of Pickle Road and Christopher Drive. Representatives from Pure Development Inc./Ceso Inc., the developers of the project, presented the plan at a public hearing prior to the trustees regular July 11 meeting. Irv Sugerman, attorney for Pure Development/Ceso, said the updated plan addresses concerns expressed at previous meetings with trustees and the township Zoning Commission including traffic, noise, the size of the building and its proximity to Schrop Intermediate School, 2215 Pickle Road. https://www.akron.com/articles/springfield-oks-preliminary-amazon-delivery-station-plan/ Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uYC6ZFyWb3bg2SeDA
July 22, 2024Jul 22 Akron housing plan highlights strategies for retaining residents, increasing development Goals mostly target neighborhoods with lower housing values, stress accountability for residents and landlords. by Reegan Davis Saunders July 19, 2024 The City of Akron released a report Tuesday that lays out strategies for improving its housing quality. The Akron Housing Action Plan and Market Value Analysis takes a look at the city’s existing housing programs and suggests ways to fill the gaps, prompting more development and ensuring affordable, quality housing for Akron residents. According to the report, created in collaboration with the Greater Ohio Policy Center and the Reinvestment Fund, the housing values in Akron have increased by 75% since 2017. https://signalakron.org/akron-housing-plan-highlights-strategies-for-retaining-residents-increasing-development/
July 24, 2024Jul 24 Residents seize first chance to publicly weigh in on Water 9 development in New Franklin Alan Ashworth Akron Beacon Journal It's been a year and a half since local businessman Tim Adkins bought the 27-hole Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links that straddles New Franklin and Green. Adkins said from the start he intended to develop the nine holes situated primarily in New Franklin and retain the rest of the golf course. He presented plans to build single-family units, with lot sales to homeowners who could choose their own builder. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/07/24/water-9-development-timetable-slips-behind-in-new-franklin/74503344007/
July 25, 2024Jul 25 Akron Art Museum to receive $2 million for project July 25, 2024 By Staff Writer AKRON — The Akron Art Museum will receive $2 million in funding from Substitute House Bill 2, the state’s two-year construction budget for capital projects across Ohio. The Akron Art Museum will use the funds to construct the Center for Digital Discovery, which will include a digital gallery, classroom and educational space, and immersive artist-created areas for all ages. “The Center for [Digital] Discovery will allow new and returning patrons to experience art in a new way,” said state Rep. Bill Roemer (R-District 31). “The Akron Art Museum, a cherished part of the community since 1922, will continue to provide enrichment through art with this project.” https://www.akron.com/articles/akron-art-museum-to-receive-2-million-for-project/
July 30, 2024Jul 30 Wintergreen Ledges affordable housing complex planned for West Akron Patrick Williams Akron Beacon Journal A $30 million affordable housing project is coming to West Akron. Akron City Council last week approved the construction of Wintergreen Ledges Apartments, an affordable apartment complex at 1831 Vernon Odom Boulevard for residents who make 30% to 70% of area median income. The median family income for the Akron Metropolitan Statistical Area, comprised of Summit and Portage counties, is $95,800, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/07/30/affordable-housing-apartment-complex-wintergreen-ledges-planned-vernon-odom-west-akron/74561754007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65 Location
July 30, 2024Jul 30 1 hour ago, yanni_gogolak said: Wintergreen Ledges affordable housing complex planned for West Akron Patrick Williams Akron Beacon Journal A $30 million affordable housing project is coming to West Akron. Akron City Council last week approved the construction of Wintergreen Ledges Apartments, an affordable apartment complex at 1831 Vernon Odom Boulevard for residents who make 30% to 70% of area median income. The median family income for the Akron Metropolitan Statistical Area, comprised of Summit and Portage counties, is $95,800, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/07/30/affordable-housing-apartment-complex-wintergreen-ledges-planned-vernon-odom-west-akron/74561754007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65 Location Seems like a lot of development is coming into Greater Akron lately.
July 31, 2024Jul 31 Akron dedicates Phase 1 of Rubber City Heritage Trail, which eventually will link 7 neighborhoods Published: Jul. 30, 2024 By Megan Becka, special to cleveland.com AKRON, Ohio – Getting from one place to another in Akron just got a little easier thanks to the opening of Phase 1 of the Rubber City Heritage Trail. Phase 1 of the multi-use trail stretches 0.9 miles. It begins at 3rd Avenue and the Middlebury Run Park Trail and ends at Exchange Street by Fire Station 2, according to the city. The city is working on plans for Phase 2 of the trail, which will extend Phase 1 through Akron’s Middlebury neighborhood. Once the entire 6-mile Rubber City Heritage Trail is complete, it will connect seven Akron neighborhoods: Goodyear Heights, Middlebury, University of Akron, Downtown Akron, Firestone Park, Summit Lake and Kenmore. The trail offers Akronites an alternate way to access parks, grocery stores, libraries, churches and other amenities. https://www.cleveland.com/akron/2024/07/akron-dedicates-phase-1-of-rubber-city-heritage-trail-which-eventually-will-link-7-neighborhoods.html
July 31, 2024Jul 31 Akron Summit Metro Parks unveils new amenities at Cascade Valley’s Valley View Area (photos) Published: Jul. 30, 2024, 4:28 p.m. By Megan Becka, special to cleveland.com AKRON, Ohio – Summit Metro Parks on Tuesday celebrated the addition of new amenities at the Valley View Area of Cascade Valley Metro Park, located at 1212 Cuyahoga St. A shelter with a fireplace and picnic tables New trails Scenic gardens River access for canoes and kayaks Gender-neutral restrooms A natural play area for children A drinking fountain that offers refilling for water bottles A bike service kiosk and bike rack The additions are part of the park district’s commitment to offering access while prioritizing conservation, according to the park district. https://www.cleveland.com/akron/2024/07/summit-metro-parks-unveils-new-amenities-at-cascade-valleys-valley-view-area-photos.html?e=04b384150ba93fa19e5b286d3d9842f4&lctg=5ecf21bc9770376d17022543&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter_rubber_city_daily 2024-07-31&utm_term=Newsletter_rubber_city_daily
July 31, 2024Jul 31 Are they going to eventually connect the park to the towpath? I thought that was something that was going to happen...or maybe it has and I'm just oblivious lol
July 31, 2024Jul 31 I don't know if I've ever actually seen that officially stated, but it seems an obvious move, wouldn't even cost that much here. And the image yanni posted noted, in the Phase 2 Restoration section, says the bike path will be constructed in the south section of the park, and that's the part closest to the river, with the Towpath just on the other side. FWIW, my oldest son and I hiked this area two autumns ago as part of the Fall Hiking Spree, I think right when it opened, and it was a little premature, I think--might as well have walked around a wheat field. I haven't been back. I hope they've gotten it a bit more built out to the standards of the rest of Cascade Valley Metro Park, which overall is excellent.
August 1, 2024Aug 1 21 hours ago, Gramarye said: I don't know if I've ever actually seen that officially stated, but it seems an obvious move, wouldn't even cost that much here. And the image yanni posted noted, in the Phase 2 Restoration section, says the bike path will be constructed in the south section of the park, and that's the part closest to the river, with the Towpath just on the other side. FWIW, my oldest son and I hiked this area two autumns ago as part of the Fall Hiking Spree, I think right when it opened, and it was a little premature, I think--might as well have walked around a wheat field. I haven't been back. I hope they've gotten it a bit more built out to the standards of the rest of Cascade Valley Metro Park, which overall is excellent. Yeah, I've been there a bunch in the last few years and there were certainly spaces that felt a bit unfinished. I may actually head up there today since I live two minutes away to check it out. I'll have to do some more research and find where I read they should be connecting the towpath. It does seem like an obvious move and would be really disappointing if they don't.
August 1, 2024Aug 1 Just found a couple maps on the metro parks website that I stitched together and I think this is where I saw they may extend the trail to the Schumacher Trail that connects to the Tow Path. "Future Honeywell link trail" looks like it will connect them.
August 1, 2024Aug 1 20 minutes ago, ASPhotoman said: Just found a couple maps on the metro parks website that I stitched together and I think this is where I saw they may extend the trail to the Schumacher Trail that connects to the Tow Path. "Future Honeywell link trail" looks like it will connect them. While there are signs to not enter, that Honeywell trail is already an unofficial trail used by quite a few people. 👍
August 1, 2024Aug 1 1 hour ago, STRIVE2THRIVE said: While there are signs to not enter, that Honeywell trail is already an unofficial trail used by quite a few people. 👍 Ahh this must be the sign I see when I'm by the water near the Schumacher Trail. Hahaha thanks for the tip!
August 6, 2024Aug 6 Site of former Akron Baptist Temple being considered for new housing Derek Kreider Akron Beacon Journal One of America's first megachurches is no more, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new one — if developers determine that they can use the land. Ed Matzules, senior vice president of Canada-based Colliers International Group Inc., is handling the sale of the 29-acre property. Via email, he said, "Currently we are under contract for a mixed use housing development." He said that could include single-family homes, townhomes or other configurations. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/local/2024/08/06/housing-could-be-coming-to-site-of-former-akron-baptist-temple/74672841007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
August 15, 2024Aug 15 BUSINESS Oriana House subsidiary ventures into market-rate housing at historic Cascade Valley site Patrick Williams Akron Beacon Journal Furnace Street Flats in Cascade Valley will include one- and two-bedroom market-rate apartments. Correctional Health Services, a for-profit Oriana House subsidiary, is behind the project, which will mark Oriana's and its subsidiaries' first market-rate housing development. Federal and state historic tax credits to the tune of $3.6 million will fund the project, which will preserve two attached buildings that were each constructed more than a century ago. Tucked in Akron's Cascade Valley on Furnace Street stand two attached historic buildings — the former red brick-exterior Akron Soap Co. building and a taller Federal Warehouse and Storage structure with sprayed-on concrete covering most of its original brick. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/business/2024/08/15/furnace-street-flats-cascade-valley-oriana-house-correctional-health-services-apartments/74558519007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=Content List - Stacking - optimized&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
August 15, 2024Aug 15 I guess these plans from 2 years ago fell through... https://www.cleveland.com/business/2022/05/akron-soap-co-building-sold-with-plans-to-become-apartments.html
August 23, 2024Aug 23 Summit County officials celebrate grand opening of THRIVE House August 22, 2024 By Staff Writer AKRON — Summit County officials gathered on Frederick Boulevard on Akron’s west side to celebrate the grand opening of THRIVE House, a new facility that will provide transitional housing and continued care for newly released individuals from the Summit County Jail who are unhoused and participating in the jail’s THRIVE (Transition, Help, Restore, Independence, Value, Empower) program. The THRIVE program was developed in 2022 as a collaboration between Summit County Sheriff Kandy Fatheree and Summit Psychological Associates. THRIVE pairs case managers with inmates who are struggling with mental health and substance use disorders to help them with their recovery, provide mental health treatment and medication services, and connect them with resources and benefits. THRIVE House provides housing for those participating in the program who are unhoused at the time of their release. https://www.akron.com/articles/summit-county-officials-celebrate-grand-opening-of-thrive-house/
August 28, 2024Aug 28 Summit County, Akron awarded funds to remediate contaminated land by Arielle Kass August 28, 2024 More than $840,000 in state money is coming to Summit County to assess the steps that should be taken to clean up five properties with hazardous materials in the soil — most of them in Akron. The funds are part of a $175 million annual allotment to clean up contaminated areas — known as brownfields — with $4.5 million statewide going to assessment projects such as the local efforts. In Akron, gas stations and the site of an old rubber company will be evaluated to determine what needs to be done to remediate the properties. https://signalakron.org/summit-county-contaminated-land-funds/
August 29, 2024Aug 29 Manchester district unveils new high school August 29, 2024 By Eric Poston NEW FRANKLIN — The new Manchester High School is officially ready for students when they return to the classroom to begin the school year after Labor Day. The district held a community open house Aug. 27 with a brief ceremony followed by tours of the new building. In November 2019, voters approved a 36-year, 8.28-mill bond issue, which was expected to generate $34 million for the district. The funding was put toward building a new high school, renovating the old high school to become an elementary school and constructing athletic facilities including a new stadium. Also as a part of the projects, the former Nimisila Intermediate School was demolished and Nolley Elementary School will also soon be demolished. https://www.akron.com/articles/manchester-district-unveils-new-high-school/
September 3, 2024Sep 3 BUSINESS Akron faces opposition to moving waste transfer station that repulses current neighbors Patrick Williams Akron Beacon Journal For more than 30 years, some Middlebury residents have been disturbed by odors emanating from WM's (formerly Waste Management) Akron Transfer Station and contend that the trash also attracts animals. WM and the city of Akron administration are now proposing WM move trash transfer operations to East Akron, where there's new opposition from local business executives. WM contends that it will prevent nuisances near the "state-of-the-art" facility that it's planning for East Akron. Responses to that messaging have been mixed. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/business/2024/09/03/wm-waste-transfer-station-move-is-bumpy-topic-for-city-of-akron/74886824007/?utm_source=nabj-DailyBriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-briefing&utm_term=hero&utm_content=OHIO-AKRON-NLETTER65
September 11, 2024Sep 11 Ordinance 316-2024 authorizing a Conditional Use to construct an apartment development at 40 N. Martha Avenue; and declaring an emergency. Vote: 12-0 (Kammer absent). The petitioner plans to raze the former Goodyear Middle School building and replace it with a 160-unit affordable housing development to be known as "The Heights." The project will feature solar panels on the flat roof and is intended to achieve a U.S. Green Building Council LEED Silver certification. Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QkMnkdJRtdsiwugu9
September 11, 2024Sep 11 Akron’s Morgan Park opens following redesign, upgrades By Megan Becka, special to cleveland.com Published: Sep. 11, 2024 AKRON, Ohio – Morgan Park is now open following two years of redesign work and upgrades, the city announced. The first improvement for the park, located at 419 Morgan Ave., was the June, 2022 installation of a community-designed playground. The playground was made possible by a partnership with Kaboom! Recent park upgrades include: • Resurfacing three basketball courts and the installation of six new backboards and posts • Adding an asphalt walking trail with benches along the perimeter • A new pavilion with seating • Additional brightly colored furnishings that were chosen by the community • Native plant landscaping • A mural created by artist Dara Harper of Art Only Boutique https://www.cleveland.com/akron/2024/09/akrons-morgan-park-opens-following-redesign-upgrades-photos.html
September 12, 2024Sep 12 On 9/11/2024 at 1:40 PM, ink said: LEED for a building that replaces a beautiful historic building.... 😛 Replaces a building that has been sitting vacant for likely 15 years with much needed affordable housing. Ohio is short 250,000+ affordable housing units.
September 12, 2024Sep 12 Akron looking to sell CitiCenter building September 12, 2024 By Eric Poston Also during the meeting, Council held several public hearings regarding conditional use permits, including to change the parking space requirements for the South Plaza Shopping Center on East Waterloo Road. Currently the zoning code requires one parking space per 200- square-feet of retail space and the conditional use will reduce the requirement to 250-square- feet-per-one-parking space. City officials said plaza officials plan to construct a new restaurant in the northwest corner of the property where the former Paparoni’s Pizza building currently stands. With the construction of the restaurant, the number of parking spaces in the plaza will be reduced from 883 to 773. Plans also indicate a new anchor tenant coming to the plaza and Council approved the conditional use changes. https://www.akron.com/articles/akron-looking-to-sell-citicenter-building/
September 12, 2024Sep 12 ODNR breaks ground on new Portage Lakes State Park visitor center September 12, 2024 By Staff Writer NEW FRANKLIN — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), along with state and New Franklin officials, took part in a groundbreaking ceremony Sept. 10 for a new visitor center at Portage Lakes State Park. According to ODNR officials, the new facility will enhance the visitor experience at the popular boating, birding and fishing destination, and will serve as a “welcoming gateway for thousands of guests, offering interactive and informative displays that highlight the rich history and significance of the park’s eight canal lakes.” https://www.akron.com/articles/odnr-breaks-ground-on-new-portage-lakes-state-park-visitor-center/
September 18, 2024Sep 18 Merriman Valley steering committee sets public meeting to discuss future of valley Published: Sep. 17, 2024 By Megan Becka, special to cleveland.com AKRON, Ohio – Community members who are interested in helping guide the future of the Merriman Valley and Schumacher areas are invited to attend a meeting on Sept. 25 at 6 p.m. at the Weathervane Playhouse. Those interested in attending are asked to register for the meeting, which will be held at 1301 Weathervane Lane in Akron. The meeting will discuss the potential of forming a Cuyahoga Valley Gateway Partnership that will guide future development of the area. Development will align with the Merriman Valley Master Plan, which has been adopted by both Akron and Cuyahoga Falls. Farr Associates, an architectural and planning firm, was hired to complete the project, which was guided by extensive site analysis, community input and stakeholder interviews. https://www.cleveland.com/akron/2024/09/merriman-valley-steering-committee-sets-public-meeting-to-discuss-future-of-valley.html
September 24, 2024Sep 24 Awkward paywall so I'm unfortunately just able to copy the snippet from my e-mail, but the largest skyscraper in Akron is changing owners. I'm sure others will be able to chime in with more details soon. I know one business that operates in this building now, and I visited that business a few months ago. The building is pretty quiet on the inside. Not sure what the vacancy rate is there, but it didn't exactly seem to have a lot of life, just based on a short trip in and out.
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