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Akron budgets $13.4 million for parks and recreation improvements, pool and trail projects
Summary
Parks officials presented a $13.4 million parks and recreation capital allocation for 2025 covering 130 parks, pool and community center projects, dam removal and trail restoration backed by a mix of GEO, EPA grants and ARPA funds.
Parks and Recreation staff presented a $13,400,000 capital plan for 2025 that covers maintenance and improvements across 130 parks and about 1,500 acres of parkland.
"This division manages events for the whole family, year round," the parks presenter said, outlining items such as community center HVAC replacements, playground and court resurfacing, and an allocation of $100,000 from ARPA to fund gaming and esports rooms at four community centers.
Major items in the packet include $600,000 from the EPA for design and removal of the Gorge Dam and river restoration, $2,500,000 for Little Cuyahoga River restoration and lowhead dam removals, and funding for the Rubber City Heritage Trail phases. Staff also identified capital for pool and bathhouse reconstruction (a $3,300,000 ARPA carryover) and multiple community center HVAC and building improvements funded through general obligation (GO) funds and GEO allocations.
Council members questioned the sufficiency of funds for items such as lane field track repairs and the choice of community centers for the esports rooms. Staff said some details are pending quotes and internal decisions, and they will return with additional timelines and vendor information.
