July 28-29 event will include bike tours, dog park, farmers market, public art
— The Barberton Community Foundation, City of Barberton and others are teaming up to help create a “Better Block” in Barberton. On July 28 and 29, Second Street in downtown Barberton will be transformed into a revitalized and activated block full of entertainment, programming and vendors.
Better Block is a community engagement project that reimagines a block using grassroots efforts, showing the potential to create a walkable, bikeable and lively community. Better Blocks are being performed in cities around the world, and have helped communities turn temporary installations into permanent infrastructure.
Taking feedback from a community meeting held earlier this year and a survey, a concept map for Barberton Better Block has been revealed. Included are markets, food trucks, a dog park and beer garden.
Art will be created by Summit Artspace on Tusc and displayed throughout the footprint, adding color and vibrancy to the area.
“Better Block is a major catalyst in redevelopment efforts by involving the community from a grassroots perspective,” said Barberton Mayor William Judge. “We are a business-friendly community, and Better Block is a great way of generating ideas and working with all stakeholders.”
Barberton Better Block will take place on Friday, July 28, from 5 to 10 p.m., and Saturday, July 29, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Second Street between West Park Avenue and West Lake Avenue.
Friday festivities will correspond with 4th Friday and the Lake Anna Concert Series, both currently taking place in downtown Barberton. The event also will include a movie, vendors and street performances.
Saturday will take on an active and healthy theme. A farmer’s market will take center stage, with organized fitness classes and kayaking. Additionally, “How We Roll” bike rides will be taking place throughout the day with free helmets for riders of all ages, provided by Akron Children’s Hospital. The Cuyahoga Valley National Park will have a station where participants may make their very own stamps, while promoting the Magic City Quest.
This event is free and open to the public. For info, visit www.barbertonbetterblock.com.
Better Block Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that educates, equips and empowers communities and their leaders to reshape and reactivate built environments to promote the growth of healthy and vibrant neighborhoods.
