Akron Approves Summit Lake Pedestrian Safety Master Plan Initiative

Akron is evaluating a proposed Summit Lake Pedestrian Safety Master Plan that would apply Complete Streets principles to improve safety, walkability and accessibility for non-motorized users throughout the neighborhood.

Plan Focus and Treatments

The plan centers on reducing vehicle speeds and reviewing every neighborhood street for possible changes. These changes include improved crosswalks, curb bump-outs, chicanes, speed tables, mini roundabouts, bike lanes and on-street parking. Earlier planning documents for Summit Lake already identified the need for painted crosswalks, pedestrian signage and safety work at key intersections. Those documents also called for traffic studies on West South Street, Old Main Street, Ira Avenue and Edison Avenue.

Neighborhood Concerns and Past Steps

Community reports have highlighted Lakeshore Boulevard as a particular problem area. High vehicle speeds and few safe crossing points make it difficult for residents to reach the lake on foot. Akron has already tested a temporary road diet on that corridor that added safer crossings, with the possibility of making some measures permanent. These local efforts reflect the city’s approach to handling pedestrian issues through targeted services and incremental decisions rather than broad new construction.

Connection to Other Local Projects

A 2026 report noted that the Summit Lake Apartments redevelopment was meant to add new pedestrian-friendly streets linking the complex more closely to the surrounding neighborhood. That project has since been paused due to a lack of funding. The pedestrian safety plan now under consideration could still advance separately as city staff review street-level treatments across the area.

City planners will continue to assess which specific changes are feasible on individual streets. Residents can follow updates through the city’s standard public planning channels as the review moves forward.