South State Road Cuyahoga Falls
Re-imagining South State Road: Building a Thriving Future, Together!
Revitalizing the State Road Corridor has always been a priority for Meika, and now, as we move beyond the challenges of the pandemic, she is taking our efforts to the next level to support businesses on and around the South State Road District.
The South State Road Business District encompasses business on and around State Road from Portage Trail to the Akron line. Working with the administration and fellow council members, Meika helped bring many of the successful programs used to reopen Front Street and other commercial corridors to the South State Road Business District.
"We have been on a mission to improve our commercial corridors throughout the city. It started with turning the desolate and bleak State Road Shopping Center into one of the busiest shopping destinations in the city, Portage Crossing. Next we reopened Front Street, transforming it into a thriving business and shopping district. A few years ago, undeterred by the pandemic, we turned our attention back to State Road. We secured $400,000 in matching grant funding to assist business owners on and around the South State Road corridor. These funds were used by small business owners to help ease the burden of updating their buildings. We started meeting with and surveying business owners as to what they would like to see moving forward, such as branding and slogans for the area. We are now in our next phase of economic development, which includes creating new lighted signage, as well as improving the aesthetics, accessibility, and safety of the South State Road corridor." — Meika Marie Penta, Ward 3 Councilwoman
Meika's work isn't done yet. In her latest efforts, she successfully lobbied for and passed legislation to allocate funds to hire a consultant who will create a master plan to re-imagine the streetscape of the South State District. This project is a significant step towards creating a vibrant and thriving shopping district. Meika is committed to continuing her efforts to make a positive impact in our city and bring about meaningful changes that benefit all residents.
Here are answers to frequently asked questions Meika has received regarding South State Road:
Q: What led to the decline of State Road's thriving status in the 1960s?
A: The shift in State Road's fortunes can be attributed to two pivotal events. First, the opening of Chapel Hill Mall in 1967 altered shopping patterns, and second, the completion of the Route 8 section connecting Front Street to Stow in 1972 redirected the main route between Akron and Cleveland. These transformative developments reshaped travel routes and consumer behaviors, diverting traffic away from State Road.
In more recent years, South State Road has witnessed a resurgence. Declined interest in indoor shopping malls along with the removal of problematic businesses has paved the way for more substantial improvements. Notable investments, such as Portage Crossing, the remodeled Acme, a diverse range of new dining options, and the introduction of various business services, have collectively improved the area. The South State Road Master Plan aims to build upon this positive momentum.
Q: Is the plan to have South State Road walkable like Front Street?
A: No. The two areas have completely different characteristics.
Q: What is the City's role in selecting businesses to move into the area?
A: While the City strives to attract businesses that can bolster our tax base and contribute to overall growth and development, it does not have a direct role in selecting businesses. Property owners have autonomy in deciding how to use their properties, as the majority of properties in our City are privately owned.
Q: Who determines whether a property is developed, left vacant, or used for business purposes?
A: The decision regarding property use is solely up to the owner. They can develop, leave vacant, or engage in other ventures, like opening a business. However, all decisions must comply with City's zoning regulations. It is also important to note that projects under 8,500 square feet do not get presented to the Planning Commission or City Council.
Q: Can the City prevent certain businesses, such as payday lenders, vape shops, or marijuana dispensaries from opening on State Road?
A: Zoning ordinances can restrict or ban certain businesses from operating in a specific area. If a business meets all applicable requirements, they can operate. You can read the City's FAQ about the marijuana dispensary here.
Q: What businesses do you want to see open on South State Road?
A: I envision a carefully curated selection of businesses that not only cater to the immediate needs but also contribute to enhancing the overall quality of life within the neighboring residential communities. My goal is to steer South State Road towards a diverse and thriving ecosystem of businesses that align with the values and aspirations of the residents, fostering a sense of pride and connection within the neighborhood.
