Akron is looking good! (Cleveland, Beavercreek: condos, dorms, theatre)

[Beavercreek33]

I just got back from a great weekend in Cleveland exploring the city and going to the Cavs game. I also happen to be in town for the Hall of Fame Induction. I still cannot understand why Madonna got in.

But anyway, Akron is really looking good. The downtown has changed dramatically and has seen numerous projects recently, and many more are on the way or are under construction. There was a new skyscraper, very modern near the University of Akron, does anyone know the name? The new stadium was also looking very good. It will host the opening game right?

The art museum has changed, there were a lot more restaurants that had opened up, and some new midrise condos. I really like how the economy of Akron has shifted from manufacturing to healthcare and education, and now the downtown is starting to show some dramatic changes.

[CityGrrl77]

Aww - posts like this one make me smile.

As for the new stadium at the UofA - yes, it will host the first game of the season!
What skyscraper were you speaking of? The Polymer Building (see the pics in my profile). I'm trying to think of what other ones there might be.

They have really been making an effort to add new structures to the area. I think their main goal is to get people to live downtown. Problem is - it's expensive.

[Puddy4LyF]

How long had it been since you were back in Akron? I think you were seeing The Polymer Building - it's about 5-6 years old though if I am guessing right. It still looks very new though.

New football stadium looks tremendous! I wish I could be there for the opening game. Pruenza really has done a nice job turning a campus that used to be so fragmented and disjointed to a campus that really sparks interest from around the country. I just wish the UA sign markers all around campus didn't look so elementary.

I think if Akron could improve one thing it would be more on Main Street. The plaza that holds Civic Theatre still looks very run-down.

Welcome back to Akron!

[Beavercreek33]

I hadn't been in Akron for a very long time, probaly since 2002. It was always just a quick glance when I went to Cleveland via I-77. Downtown was just great. There was a good amount of people out and about, and UA had all new dorms, a new stadium on the way, and it really is starting to connect with downtown, when I was last there it really didn't seem like it connected with the city very well.

Also, when was the Aeros new stadium built? That was a nice ballpark too.

[5Lakes]

Yes, Akron is much improved since I lived there. It's great to see all the improvements when I make it back that way.

[Puddy4LyF]

Originally Posted by Beavercreek33

Also, when was the Aeros new stadium built? That was a nice ballpark too.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canal_Park_(Akron,_Ohio)

Canal Park - it broke ground in 1996, opened in 1997. I still remember when it was being built - I used to go to the bridge that sits adjacent to the park and watch them build when I was a teenager. During game days, you can look in over the park from the same bridge (as well as the Children's Hospital Parking deck in left field)

Akron: Photo Tour Goodyear Polymer Center

Here is a photo of the Polymer Building near campus that we think you saw. I can't find a year for when it was built.

[CortlandGirl79]

I love Canal Park! Also, one of my favorite places in Akron is Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens.

[Beavercreek33]

What a view!

We drove past it on a downtown street, and looked through the front gates, it looked like a great place to watch a game, and the view really adds to it all.

[ksu sucks]

Dang! The polymer building and Canal Park are news to you? It must've been a REALLY LONG time since you've been to Akron.