Akron, Ohio, Sept. 30, 2024 — Akron Mayor Shammas Malik has announced plans to present legislation to the City Council that will facilitate the design phase of the Cascade Parking Deck’s renovation in downtown Akron. Earlier this year, the Ohio House of Representatives allocated $2.5 million for the project, which was matched by an equal amount approved by the State Senate, resulting in a total funding of $5 million for the Cascade Plaza renovation. The design expenses, estimated at $400,000, will be covered by this state funding.
Mayor Malik emphasized the importance of this project, stating, “This is the next step in the process of downtown redevelopment. Improving the deck is a significant investment into the heart of our downtown, which is crucial to the experience and accessibility of this corridor. These improvements will allow us to continue supporting residential, retail, and commercial growth and density downtown. I again want to thank all of our community partners and our area legislators for their support of this much-needed investment.”
The renovation plans include a variety of enhancements, such as repairing columns, patching concrete, replacing stairs and railings, upgrading lighting, addressing ADA compliance issues, and improving wayfinding and signage within the deck. Additionally, the improvements aim to address a leak in the pedestrian tunnel beneath N. Main St. and enhance drainage and waterproofing in the upgraded areas.
The design phase is expected to take around 10 weeks, with construction set to commence in the summer of 2025.