March. 2025​​​​​

St. Patrick’s Day Parade In Downtown Akron Saturday March 8

Akron, Ohio, Feb. 21, 2025  — The Mark Heffernan/Margaret Judge Divisions of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, in association with the City of Akron, present the 42nd annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 8. The parade will kick-off at noon, beginning at Cedar/S. Main and move northbound on South Main Street to Bowery Street in downtown Akron. 

Prior to the parade, guests are invited to visit the Hibernian Club (2000 Brown St.) for a Parade Day Breakfast sponsored by the Akron Hurling Team.

Line-up for the parade will begin at 10:00 a.m. in the northbound lanes of S. Main St. between Bartges St. and Cedar St.  At 11:50 a.m., S. Main St. will close entirely between Bartges St. and Mill St. The road will reopen no later than 2:30 pm.  

The parade will feature high school and grade school bands, non-profit organizations, businesses, animal groups, floats, and more. The Honorary Grand Marshall this year is the first Irish Honorary Consul in Ohio, Mark Owens.

After the parade, the All-American Judges Association will give awards to participants at Knight Stage, right next to the Akron Civic entrance.  Downtown parking options can be found here.   

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Public Notice: Kent Street Bridge Rehabilitation

 

Summary:

The City of Akron will be conducting rehabilitation on the Kent Street Bridge over the Little Cuyahoga River, between Williams Street and N. Case Avenue, as the existing bridge is nearing the end of its lifespan.  This project shall include a new bridge deck with 5’-0” sidewalk on both sides, sidewalk between N. Case Avenue and sidewalk on the new bridge deck, as well as a new pedestrian crossing across N. Case Avenue.  Construction is expected to occur in 2025.  Curb ramps will be constructed where missing and those in poor condition or not ADA compliant will be replaced.

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Vehicular Detour:

A vehicular detour is anticipated during construction. North bound vehicles will be rerouted down N. Case Avenue, to E. Market Street, and vice versa for South bound vehicles. Temporary walkways around the work area will be provided for pedestrians, if needed. All access to properties will be maintained throughout construction.

Issues you may wish to comment on include, but are not limited to, the effect of the project on local residents, air quality, the local economy, floodplains, and historic or cultural resources.  Questions, comments, and concerns may be sent via email to SBlizzard@akronohio.gov or they can be mailed to:

Akron Engineering Bureau

166 South High Street

Design Division Room 701

Akron, Ohio 44308

Attn:  Slade Blizzard

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City of Akron’s Lock 3 Releases Survey for Summer Season

Akron, Ohio, Feb. 14, 2025  — This week, the City of Akron’s Lock 3 team is releasing a survey for residents to provide feedback and input on future Lock 3 programming efforts. The results of the survey will help guide music and festival choices for the upcoming season and beyond. The survey is open now until March 14 and can be accessed here.

As Lock 3 wraps up the winter season and prepares for summertime programs, the team wants to provide events that resonate with the public. A revitalized Lock 3 opens up the doors for new, innovative programs as well as building upon the traditional Lock 3 events residents know and love.

“We are dedicated to creating events and experiences at Lock 3 that reflect the vibrant culture and diverse interests of our residents,” said Mayor Malik.  “As we plan the upcoming Lock 3 Summer programming, your voice is essential in shaping what’s next for our community’s favorite downtown destination. This survey is your opportunity to share your ideas, preferences, and feedback to help us design activities, concerts, and entertainment that bring people together and make Akron shine.”

“Your input will play a key role in how we prioritize resources, plan performances, and provide family-friendly fun at Lock 3,” said Director of Economic Development Suzie Graham Moore. “Whether it’s the types of music you love or new elements you want us to explore, your feedback will guide decision-making and ensure that this year’s programming is meaningful and inclusive for everyone. Thank you for being an active part of Akron’s growth and for helping us make Lock 3 the ultimate hub for connection and enjoyment!”

The new Lock 3 Maynard Performance Pavilion features a one-of-a-kind stage which can host shows for all sizes of audiences. It has 3 sides for performances including the lawn view for concerts and events totaling 3,000 – 3,500 guests, the Swensons Game Patio view, for 500 – 1,000 person events and the Canal view, for 250 – 500 person events. For larger acts, Lock 3 will offer reserved seating with ticket costs proportionate to the programming. The survey allows residents to suggest acts they want to see and whether they’d be willing to pay more for premium national acts.

Lock 3 held their grand reopening on November 29, 2024. Since then, they’ve hosted many successful wintertime activities including ice skating which garnered over 12,000 visits to the ice rink as well as over 1,200 appointments for igloo rentals and bumper cars. In total, Lock 3 has welcomed 15,000 visitors to their new space during the winter season.

Learn more at Lock3Live.com. Take the survey here.

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