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City of Akron Provides Update on Exchange St. Project

Bulk of roadway to be complete by end of 2024 


Akron, Ohio, Feb. 13, 2024  — Today, Mayor Malik is providing an update to the comprehensive roadway improvements project on East Exchange Street near the University of Akron campus.  

In recent weeks, individuals have been using the travel curb lane along Exchange for short-term parking, impeding the flow of traffic and creating traffic safety issues. For the safety of both pedestrians and drivers, fencing is being installed this week on the sidewalk on the south side of Exchange between Sumner and Allyn.  

Later this month, construction is scheduled to flip from the north side of Exchange (nearer to main campus) to the south side, meaning all traffic will be diverted to the north side. There will still be a lane of travel in each direction and pedestrian access will be maintained. Businesses are open in the construction zone and there is free parking available on the side streets (Allyn and Sumner) as well as a parking garage behind the businesses. Drivers are reminded there is no parking on Exchange St. throughout the duration of the construction. 

This project includes full improvements of East Exchange Street between Arc Drive and Fountain Street including new pavement, curbs, sidewalks, bike lanes, street lighting, traffic signals, water main replacement, sewer reconstruction and landscaping. 

The north side of Exchange, from Fountain to Kling Street, is already substantially complete. The contractor is currently working in the remainder of the north side of Exchange Street, from Arc to Kling, performing utility work through the winter.  

Timeline for remainder of the project:  

  • Sewer lining is expected to be complete by the end of February. 
  • North half of Exchange, from Arc to Kling, should be complete in late May. 
  • South half of Exchange Street, from Arc to Sumner, should be complete in late August. 
  • South half of Exchange Street, from Sumner to Fountain, should be complete in late November or early December. 
  • Sidewalks, street trees, street lighting and other minor aesthetic improvements are expected to be completed in Spring of 2025.  

“The Exchange Street project is an extensive improvement for one of our main roadways and a critical part of the University of Akron campus. I know that many people – especially students – have questions and concerns about the project and how best to navigate the construction. I hope this update helps folks understand what’s coming up next. I will continue to listen to feedback and respond to concerns, and I encourage everyone to support the businesses in this area as they will remain open and are ready to serve customers.” 

Contact:  
Stephanie Marsh, Director of Communications  
press@akronohio.gov or 330-256-1191