What's New

The 2015 Pedestrian Plan approved by AMATS is another significant step by the Greater Akron area towards regional connectivity.  The new plan provides a bold vision as to what sort of pedestrian networks that the area should pursue in the coming years.

The 2015 Pedestrian Plan identifies safety, connectivity and vibrancy as three areas of improvement for the region’s pedestrian systems and suggests various strategies for communities to consider during project planning.  Many of the strategies are based on “complete street” principles, which emphasize the importance of safe access for all users, not just automobiles, and the promotion of pedestrian-friendly concepts.

AMATS Public Information Coordinator Kerry Prater says that the 2015 Pedestrian Plan goes beyond urging communities to consider installing a few feet of sidewalks and curb ramps in limited locales.  The new plan recommends the pursuit of such planning practices as road diets, mixing land uses and vibrant streetscapes.

“This is a significant update of our first plan from three years ago.  We have prepared a unique planning resource for communities that they can use to develop pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods,” Prater says.  He notes that existing examples of the practices espoused in the new plan can be found in Cuyahoga Falls’ Portage Crossing and Kent’s Acorn Alley areas.

The 2015 Pedestrian Plan will be used as an input in the development of the Greater Akron area’s upcoming long-term Regional Transportation Plan.  To view the 2015 Pedestrian Plan, please click here.