The Vision for a Revitalized Downtown in Akron, Ohio

Jennifer Conn reports that the city of Akron and Downtown Akron Partnership released the findings of the first phase of the Downtown Vision and Redevelopment Plan.

In phase 1, the plan outlines 10 planning principles that will be guide new public and private developments:

• Focus on Main Street
• Build vitality through residential development
• Address business vacancy
• Create a coordinated incentive for redevelopment
• Make great public spaces
• Continue to program downtown
• Prioritize street design that enhances health and safety
• Expand on successful areas of activity
• Build on Akron's rich history
• Strengthen downtown connections with surrounding neighborhoods and institutions

The first phase of the plan also identifies five development sires as potentially catalytic for the new activity around the city, according to Conn. An official press release from the Downtown Akron partnership provides additional context for the Downtown Revision and Redevelopment Plan effort.

The Downtown Vision and Redevelopment Plan joins a series of planning efforts in 2016 intended to jump-start development in the city. Previous Planetizen posts regarding the city of Akron in 2016 include a plan to bring 50,000 residents back to the city, a bus system overhaul, and a proposal to end parking minimums.