Reviving Akron’s Downtown: A Fresh Look at New Plans

Vision & Redevelopment Plan (2018, updated 2025)

• Built from community interviews, public meetings, and online surveys.
• Clear goals set for the next few years.

Turning Empty Storefronts into Homes

• Current occupancy: 94 % – a testament to downtown living’s appeal.

Retail & Commerce

• Collaboration with city officials and the Downtown Akron Development Corporation.
• National consultant tailors strategies to Akron’s unique vibe.
• Residents can influence retail mix via an online survey.

Arts & Culture as Economic Drivers

• Akron Civic Theatre: projected $197 M in spending over 5 years.
• County visitor spend: $1.7 B last year (+5.9 %).
• Key venues: Lock 3, Civic Theatre, Akron Art Museum, sports events.

Connectivity & Infrastructure

• Improved links to the University of Akron.
• New hotel near the convention center.
• Upgrades to historic buildings: Polsky Building, Quaker Square.

Community Engagement

• Summer events calendar invites residents and visitors to explore public spaces.
• Sign up for newsletters; share experiences online to promote downtown’s vibrancy.

“Every day feels like a celebration in downtown, thanks to the collective effort of residents, businesses and partners who keep the area vibrant.” – Downtown Akron Partnership