Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition receives $150,000 grant from GAR Foundation for the Summit Lake NorthShore

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Akron, Ohio (February 26, 2025): The Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition is the recipient of a $150,000 capital grant from the GAR Foundation to support the completion of the Summit Lake NorthShore Park. 

The Summit Lake NorthShore Project implementation began in 2024 with the site work in preparation for Phase II, beginning spring 2025. The Summit Lake NorthShore is the next phase of the Summit Lake Vision Plan, a key component of the resident-led Akron Civic Commons 2.0 initiative, which aims to reconnect residents and visitors to Summit Lake by creating attractive parks, trails and public spaces that are welcoming to all residents and visitors. The redevelopment of Summit Lake's North Shore includes the creation of picnic areas, fishing pier and boardwalk, a covered pavilion for gatherings, a boat launch, canoe/kayak launch, concession areas and more. 

The capital grant increases the total funding for the Summit Lake Vision Plan to over $12 million for the Summit Lake NorthShore Park. 

Summit Lake NorthShore Rendering

 

GAR Foundation has awarded $837,250 in capital grants to 30 organizations across Greater Akron, supporting projects that expand access to essential services and foster economic and cultural vitality. Most grants support projects that are near the fundraising "finish line," which GAR's funding enabling the project to move forward to implementation. 

"These investments ensure that organizations have what they need to achieve their mission-critical objectives," said Christine Amer Mayer, president of GAR Foundation. "From parks and theaters to housing and health services, these projects strengthen the physical spaces that bring people together and improve quality of life in Greater Akron." 

Special thanks to the GAR Foundation for their generous grant for the implementation of the Akron Civic Commons 2.0 Summit Lake NorthShore Park. President and Chief Executive Officer Dan Rice noted, "We are extremely grateful to the GAR Foundation and all of our donors for their incredible support and commitment to the resident-led Akron Civic Commons 2.0 Summit Lake Vision Plan and the Ohio & Erie Canalway. Through their tremendous support, Summit Lake will become a destination for residents, hikers and bicyclists along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail and a legacy for future generations." 

For more information on the Summit Lake Vision Plan or to make a contribution, contact Dan Rice at drice@ohioeriecanal.org or (330) 374-5657.