Investing Here

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University Park Alliance

Phone: 330-972-8859

Fax: 330-972-5453

info@upakron.com

Through strategic partnerships, leadership on point, and a shared-vision for the future of University Park, jobs are being created and retained; substantial private investment is taking root; talent needed to help new businesses grow is being attracted; new housing units are being constructed and planned; considerable civic investment is in the pipeline; and the transformation of University Park is being regionally and nationally recognized as a model for successful urban revitalization. We invite you to join us in this exciting endeavor.

Vision

Initiated by The University of Akron with key partners Summa Health System and the City of Akron, the partners of University Park Alliance (UPA) have created and have expanded upon a community-based shared vision for the University Park neighborhood. This vision supports the development of a mixed-use pedestrian and bicycle-friendly community that innovatively incorporates learning and wellness, offers a true green-living option and blurs the lines between community and campus.

Opportunity

Strategically located University Park is a community of opportunity for businesses, residents and visitors. The 1,000-acre culturally-rich neighborhood surrounds The University of Akron campus and is bisected by State Route 8 and directly adjacent to Interstate 76. More than 25,000 students visit the campus, and the neighborhood, each day. University Park is home to more than 15,000 residents, more than 300 businesses with greater than 24,000 employees, and is within walking or biking distance to 8 of the areas 10 largest employers.

Support

As of 2010, more than $15 million has been invested in supporting this bold vision for the future of University Park by government, the public and private sector, and private foundations. This community vision, and the partnership that supports it, have received multiple awards and recognition at the regional, state, and national levels.

Progress

Between 2000 and 2010, over 1,000 new jobs were created, more than $300 million had been invested in private capital improvements and more than $52 million has been invested in civic capital improvements in the neighborhood. Also during this time, 80 new housing units were approved, were under construction, or completed.

 Significant public realm improvements have been made in recent years in University Park including improvements to streets, parks, sidewalks, public art, architecture and public spaces on The University of Akron campus. Major educational improvements have also been made with 3 new schools constructed, a scholarship program established for long-term residents, a preschool initiative and multiple supplementary educational initiatives for children and adults.