Tour of Akron

Akron succeeded as an industry mostly because it had the canal. The canal transported goods faster than any other method of transportation at the time and also provided jobs for the people of the area. Men had jobs building the canals and locks, cutting the stones, and building and working ships to use in the canals. There were plenty of jobs available. Akron also succeeded because of the tire companies that were started there like Goodyear and Firestone. These places thrived because they were some of the first places to make rubber tires and they somewhat monopolized the business. This industry probably could have thrived other places though too, like Cleveland.

Akron is moving towards a more communal setting with houses in a more neighborhoodly order. They expect young people in business to move in and the way the houses are set up, they are trying to create a nicer community setting with people on their porches and garages in back as opposed to in front of houses. Economically, Akron is getting more involved with Polymers by studying new uses for them, like enzymes. One thing they are learning how to create is polymer bandages to heal skin quicker on burn victims.

Akron is a great city because it is trying to bring people from all angles by creating a more community setting yet still supporting industries there. The polymer lab probably helps to draw in many students interested in the field and the city's history also helps bring people in, like the hotel that was converted from the quaker oats building. The Cuyahoga Valley helps connect Akron with Cleveland because of the many paths and the railraod that bring the cities togethor. People can travel to each city easily and see the beautiful scenery on the way. In the past, the canals have been able to connect the cities through trade and business. I honestly can't think of anything Akron is majorly lacking in, but it is not a perfect city and there is definately room for growth.