City of Akron Shares Update on Special Improvement District in Highland Square

The City of Akron is continuing to stand up the Special Improvement District (SID) which has been established in the Highland Square neighborhood.

A SID is a defined geographic area where property owners in the footprint pay an assessment to fund extra services benefiting that district. This could cover additional security, beautification, litter pick up, and more. Downtown Akron is part of a SID which is the primary funding source for Downtown Akron Partnership’s core services in the downtown footprint.

A board has been established in the Highland Square SID to draft a Services Plan to identify what services would be funded by an assessment. That board is made up of property owners in the footprint. Once a Services Plan has been finalized, the city will create a petition which will require property owners that represent 60% of the front footage of the SID to approve the assessment. Then, legislation will be brought to Akron City Council to approve the assessments.

While Akron continues to work towards a fully functioning SID in this district, several measures are being taken to improve safety in the corridor. Today, barriers were placed to block off a section of on street parking on W. Market St. Parking is being directed to the City owned parking behind Chipotle instead. These barriers will remain in place through the Fall.

Additionally, beginning tonight, security will be patrolling the area on Friday and Saturday nights, and in coordination with Akron Police Department, they will assist with mitigating illegal open container activity in area. The city is also looking to install additional signage in the area to clarify the open container laws and remind patrons that the lot is being recorded.

“This has been a collaborative effort between the Malik administration, Akron Police, Ward 1 Councilmember Fran Wilson, business and property owners, and various city departments to make Highland Square a safer and more welcoming place for residents, businesses, and visitors,” said Chief of Public Safety Craig Morgan. “These steps are intended to improve traffic flow, reduce safety risks, and support a positive environment throughout the corridor. We appreciate the continued partnership of everyone working to support the neighborhood.”

“This work reflects a shared commitment to the Highland Square neighborhood and the people who live, work, and spend time here,” said Akron Mayor Shammas Malik. “By taking thoughtful, proactive steps, we are helping create a safer, more accessible environment that benefits the entire community.”