Merriman Valley Redevelopment Plan

A Model of Land Conservation & Sustainable Development

The Cities of Akron and Cuyahoga Falls, OH hired Farr Associates and our team of experts to develop a master plan for the Merriman Valley / Schumacher Area. The plan encapsulates the communities of Akron and Cuyahoga Falls, OH in their common goal to create a sustainable guide for redevelopment.

The communities were clear that preserving the rich natural beauty of the place, including the Cuyahoga River, functional landscapes, and wildlife, was the priority. The plan targets redevelopment on previously disturbed land, leaving as much of the natural landscape as possible. Where property owners still have the right to develop their land, the plan lays out sustainability guidelines that concentrate development and preserve open space, as well as lightens the impact of what new development does occur.

The plan designates Nature Corridors around riparian and habitat corridors and Conservation Neighborhoods where people and nature can live in harmony. Specific nodes were highlighted for targeted development and placemaking to create special places that visitors and locals alike can enjoy. The project includes a Form-Based Code component to help the Cities realize their vision to make the Valley a model of land conservation and sustainable development.