University Park Alliance speaker series announced
The findings of two reports that studied Akron’s University Park neighborhood will be shared as the University Park Alliance (UPA) kicks off its third annual Urban Innovators Speaker Series on Jan. 31.Researcher David Primm and UPA Director Eric Anthony Johnson will release the two reports that find by 2030, the economic impact of UPA’s master plan for the residential and business district next to the University of Akron “can be transformational, and successful redevelopment in Akron’s urban core is possible.”The men will speak from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Andrew Jackson House, 277 E. Mill St. The studies were conducted by research firms Tripp Umbach of Pittsburgh, and Tetra Tech of Arlington, Va.In keeping with UPA’s mission of bringing “world-class urban thinkers” to town, the speaker series also will feature:• Wendy Holmes of Minneapolis, vice president of Artspace, who will speak on Building a Vibrant Community: Artists’ Live/Work Space as a Redevelopment Catalyst. Her presentation will be Feb. 29.• Steve Davies of New York, vice president of the Project for Public Spaces, will speak on Healthy Food Hubs: Eliminating Food Deserts and Supporting Local Economies. He will speak March 28.All events begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Andrew Jackson House and are free. Seating is limited to 100 per presentation, and reservations are required by calling 330-777-2070 or emailing info@uakron.com.
