A small stretch of road known as the “Innerbelt” was meant to connect to major highways in Akron in the 1960s, but the construction project has since been abandoned.
Now, the city is hoping to transform what’s become a point of division to a symbol of unity.
The city released a "Phase One Report" last year, detailing more than two years of engagement data, case studies and recommendations for carrying out its Reconnecting Our Community initiative. The development program was formally launched in 2022 and aims to rebuild the Innerbelt space through community-based collaboration. Akron Mayor Shammas Malik said they’re now launching a master plan, implementing input from members of the community.