Akron: Department of Planning & Urban Development: Strategic Initiative

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Strategic Initiatives

Strategic Initiatives
166 S. High St. Room 402
Akron, OH 44308
(330) 375-2084

Manager: Mark Moore MMoore@AkronOhio.gov

Secretarial Staff:
Dorothy Kimball DKimball@Akronohio.gov

Division Staff:
Amy Akins AAkins@AkronOhio.gov
Jim Ashley JAshley@AkronOhio.gov
Monika Kirbawy MKirbawy@AkronOhio.gov
Charlie Ryder CRyder@AkronOhio.gov

The Strategic Initiatives Division performs a variety of functions related to preserving and improving the quality of life for Akron residents. Areas of responsibilities include:

Development of annual Capital Investment Program describing the capital improvements planned for the City including streets, sidewalks, sewers, water lines, parks, public facilities and economic development projects. The program is adopted by City Council by February 15 of the Program year.

Development and publication of five year Capital Investment Program describing the capital improvements planned for the City.

Identification and utilization of available funding sources at the federal, state, regional, and local levels to meet the City's immediate and long term needs for capital improvements.

Provision of information to City Council and the Mayor for review and evaluation of each project in the annual Capital Investment Program through Progress Reports and review sessions.

Preparation of applications to the Summit County Infrastructure Committee (District 8) for Ohio Public Works Commission funding of infrastructure projects. Also assist in analyzing and evaluating applications received from throughout Summit County.

Provision of design guidance to improve the visual and physical quality of Akron's Central Business District, neighborhood business districts, urban renewal areas, neighborhoods, and corridors (major arterials, waterways, open space). Architecture, site layout, signage, and landscaping are reviewed and plans developed in order to establish appropriate aesthetic treatment, to set standards for design, and to promote and encourage private sector improvement.

Oversight of the Urban Design and Historic Preservation Commission. This commission provides independent aesthetic review of various development projects in the city, and reviews applications for historic designation of local buildings and districts. Those wishing to nominate a building or district for historic designation should complete the appropriate historic designation application.