The city of Akron is blocking off some street parking in Highland Square as a way to address in-car partying by visitors to the area, which in some instances has “impacted the well being of others,” said Ward 1 Akron Councilperson Fran Wilson.
Effective April 10, concrete barriers will block street parking on the half-block of West Market Street west of South Highland Avenue to the crosswalk just before the Highland Square Theatre.
In recent years, Highland Square has seen an uptick in safety issues, including a shooting that left one man dead. The city already has tried to prevent late-night nuisances and illegal activities that crop up – especially during warm-weather months – by restricting parking hours in public lots there.
The lively neighborhood is home to a movie theater that often features family-themed releases, an Akron-Summit County Public Library branch, an eclectic mix of restaurants, shops and bars and the annual PorchRokr musical festival. It also has become one of the city’s main gathering spots for various rallies, protests and vigils.
In an April 10 news release, the city said the barriers will be present through the fall.
In a flier announcing the changes, Wilson said, “The next few months will serve as a trial period for this effort.”
Wilson said they collaborated with the city administration, area businesses and property owners before the city enacted the parking restrictions.
“I’m going to be real with you: We have a culture of respect and care to reestablish in this district, and it’ll take all of us to do so,” Wilson said.
“This has been a collaborative effort between the Malik administration, Akron Police, Ward 1 Councilmember Fran Wilson, business and property owners, and various city departments to make Highland Square a safer and more welcoming place for residents, businesses, and visitors,” said public safety chief Craig Morgan in a prepared statement on April 10. “These steps are intended to improve traffic flow, reduce safety risks, and support a positive environment throughout the corridor. We appreciate the continued partnership of everyone working to support the neighborhood.”
Where should I park now?
Visitors to Highland Square are encouraged to park in the city lot behind the Chipotle plaza and other street parking areas.
“Signage and enforcement in the lots will soon be adjusted,” Wilson said. “In the coming months, if you receive a ticket for simply parking in that lot in the evening, please contact me at Ward1@AkronOhio.gov.”
Foot patrols coming to Highland Square
Wilson said local people trained in interacting with guests, conducting neighborhood patrols and deescalation techniques will be circulating on Friday and Saturday nights beginning April 10.
The city said the patrols will coordinate with Akron police in mitigating illegal open container activity in the area.
“The city is also looking to install additional signage in the area to clarify the open container laws and remind patrons that the lot is being recorded,” the city said.
Contact reporter Derek Kreider at DKreider@Gannett.com or 330-541-9413.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Akron pares back Highland Square parking in bid to limit mischief
Reporting by Derek Kreider, Akron Beacon Journal / Akron Beacon Journal
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