Summit County Economic Development Task Force Makes Route 8 Study Available for Citizens County Website

The Route 8 Corridor Working Group, comprised of the City of Macedonia, Summit County Department of Economic Development, Northfield Center Township, the Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce, and the Summit County Port Authority, released land use and economic impact study in May 2008. A presentation of the executive summary is now available for download at: http://www.co.summit.oh.us/executive/devtaskforce.htm .

History

On behalf of Executive Russell M. Pry’s Department of Development, Macedonia Mayor Don Kuchta, the Summit County Port Authority, and the Northfield Center Township Trustees, the Greater Akron Chamber contracted with Silverlode Consulting to conduct the study. Silverlode completed a thorough environmental impact analysis that lead to best-use scenarios. Additionally, Silverlode conducted interviews with area stakeholders, including the National Park Service, developers, and government officials in northern Summit County.

“My administration is determined to support economic development that balances the needs of Summit County residents and our county’s diverse natural features,” said Executive Russell M. Pry. “This study was an appropriate mechanism to help support smart growth in an environmentally sensitive area. It is also another strong example of regional collaboration which brought together our partners at the Greater Akron Chamber, the Summit County Port Authority, and in our local communities.”


Mayor Don Kuchta initiated the study as a result of last year’s now defunct soccer stadium proposal. The study focuses on property east of Route 8, south of Highland Road, and north of Hines Hill Road.

On May 28, 2008, public officials and Silverlode consultants presented the study at a press conference in Macedonia.