Merriman Valley Schumacher Master Plan

In 2021, the cities of Akron and Cuyahoga Falls collaborated on creating a master plan for the Merriman Valley and Schumacher areas of our cities. To engage residents, businesses, and other stakeholders in developing the plan, the cities hired Farr Associates - a nationally recognized planning firm that specializes in urban design, sustainable architecture, and environmentally-sensitive design. The master plan was completed in February 2022.  The plan includes urban design, transportation, economic, zoning, environmental, and recreational components. The plan envisions a neighborhood that is more walkable and equitable, with improved transportation systems for all users. It also recognizes that the Merriman Valley business district is a gateway to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.  The plan emphasizes protection of the environment through conservation neighborhoods, habitat corridors, and riparian setbacks. Using the master plan as a guide, the two cities hope to ensure that the Merriman Valley and Schumacher neighborhoods become more walkable, healthy, equitable, beautiful, and resilient places to live, work, and play.



Merriman Valley-Schumacher Area Proposed Form-Based Code

The next step in realizing the vision of the master plan is to adopt a modern Form-Based zoning code to guide development and conservation in the neighborhood. A Form-Based code specifies requirements for the physical character and layout of the built environment, rather than focusing on the separation of building uses, such as residential versus commercial. A Form-Based zoning code fosters the creation of vibrant, walkable places by allowing for a mix of compatible uses. The new code will use simple visual language and diagrams that are easily understood by the general public. The code will ensure predictable results that are in alignment with the master plan vision.

Merriman Valley-Schumacher Area Form-Based Zoning Code
Merriman Valley-Schumacher Area Zoning Code Map

Master Plan Final Report
Merriman Valley-Schumacher Area Master Plan
Merriman Valley, Commercial Target Market Analysis
Merriman Valley, Residential Target Market Analysis
Merriman Valley, Target Market Analysis Appendix

Ways to provide feedback:
Send an email:  ValleyPlan@akronohio.gov
Call us:  330-375-2090

Public Participation
Meaningful public participation is a key component of a successful planning process.

Public Workshop 1 - PROJECT INTRODUCTION & BUILDING BLOCKS was held virtually on Thursday, July 15th at 5:30 pm
Zoom Video Recording
Public Workshop 1 - Building Blocks PDF document

Public Design Charrette August 17-19, 2021
The cities of Akron and Cuyahgoa Falls held a design charrette in the Merriman Valley Schumacher study area. A charette is a focused period of design activity that takes place over several days. The consultants worked on site and held two public meetings and offered open studio time for the public to share ideas with the design team and see the planning process in action. View recordings from the public sessions below:

PUBLIC CHARRETTE VIDEO RECORDING: TUESDAY, AUGUST 17th


PUBLIC CHARRETTE VIDEO RECORDING: THURSDAY AUGUST 19th


Public Meeting December 15, 2021
Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan and Cuyahgoa Falls Mayor Don Walters hosted a virtual public meeting on December 15, 2021 to discuss the draft Merriman Valley Schumacher Area Master Plan.

PUBLIC MEETING VIDEO RECORDING: WEDNESDAY DEC 15th