City of Akron Seeks Public Comment on North Main St. Project

Akron, Ohio, Jan. 16, 2024  — The City of Akron is developing 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). This safety project is a result of years of study and public engagement, beginning with Akron Better Block in 2015. Akron is now seeking public comment on the project both in person and online here.

A public meeting will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, February 3 at North Hill Library (183 East Cuyahoga Falls Avenue). This meeting will be facilitated by Environmental Design Group and will showcase the proposed project and provide an opportunity for public comment. As part of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the city is seeking comments from the public about the social, environmental, and economic impacts of the proposed project. Environmental impacts include those associated with historical, archaeological and ecological resources, hazardous materials, and general concerns residents may have with regard to the project. Click here for more information and renderings.

Improvements proposed as part of the project include resurfacing the pavement on North Main Street, removal of traffic signals (at East York Avenue, Frances Avenue, and East Mildred Avenue), four new protected pedestrian crossings, a center turn lane in most of the corridor, buffered bike lanes in each direction, improved pedestrian and ADA facilities, and parking along most of the corridor. In addition, new traffic signals and street trees will be installed along with upgraded water main and other utility work.

These enhancements are intended to improve safety for all users – especially pedestrians and bike riders – and have been recommended as a result of an in-depth safety study performed in 2020. As a key corridor in the city , right-sizing this roadway for current and future traffic while improving walkability and overall pedestrian/bicyclist safety and is expected to better meet the needs of the area.

Public comment can be provided by visiting the city’s Engage page here. Comments and questions regarding this project may also be submitted to: Rob Solomon, City of Akron Project Manager, RSolomon@akronohio.gov | 330-375-2252.