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Public Service Committee advances airport grants, street-safety projects and demolition program
Summary
The Public Service Committee moved several consent items including ODOT grant applications for Akron Fulton Airport taxiway rehabilitation and fuel-farm replacement, an ODOT-funded safety corridor on East Cuyahoga Falls Avenue, design services for the High Main Viaduct, an emergency demolition contract for 71 condemned houses, and a veteran-only parking resolution sent forward with favorable reports.
The Public Service Committee on a consent agenda advanced multiple infrastructure and community-safety items to the full council.
Airport funding: Service staff explained two ODOT grant applications tied to Akron Fulton Airport. One would fund design work for rehabilitation of Taxiway P and purchase snow removal equipment; staff noted a prior FAA award covered 95% of project costs and the ODOT application would help bridge the remaining gap. A second application would fund removal of two underground tanks and installation of three above-ground fuel tanks, with remediation of the former underground tanks.
Streets and bridges: Committee members heard that an ODOT grant of just over $400,000 will fund safety and traffic-calming improvements along East Cuyahoga Falls Avenue, including rehabilitation of 84 curb ramps to meet ADA standards, corridor restriping, and a new mid-block pedestrian crossing. Another ordinance will authorize hiring engineering consultants to design repairs for the High Main Viaduct; staff said bridge design is planned for 2026 with construction procurement in 2027, with prior bridge funding covering roughly 95%.
Demolition program: Housing staff presented a 2026 emergency demolition program to remove 71 condemned residential structures across the city. Dwayne Greger said a portion of voluntary demolitions are covered by Community Development Block Grant funds and the remainder would come from the General Fund. Council asked for the list of 71 properties to be provided to members.
Veteran parking: The committee also advanced a resolution to designate veteran-only parking at selected city facilities to honor Lawrence Williams, a two-time Purple Heart recipient. The sponsor said roughly 9,000 veterans live in Akron and the intent is to ensure veterans feel “seen and appreciated.” The committee moved to suspend the rules and give a favorable report on the resolution.
Staff noted that most items were supported for consent by committee members and that staff will conduct public outreach (mailers and ward meetings) for corridor projects before construction begins.
Next steps: Items advanced by the committee will appear on the council consent agenda for final consideration; staff will provide requested lists and outreach plans to council members.
