AKRON, Ohio — Following a series of violent incidents in Akron’s Highland Square neighborhood, including the shooting death of an innocent bystander last fall, local business owners are calling for urgent action to improve safety.
With warmer weather approaching, they say the time to act is now.
Business leaders are working alongside city officials on a plan to restore safety, rebuild confidence, and bring visitors back to the area.
A community shaken
The death of Timothy Hutchinson in October 2025 deeply impacted the Highland Square community. Business owners say ongoing safety concerns have driven customers away, creating an urgent need for change.
“I understand why people have become more fearful of the neighborhood,” said Abraham Nabors, a second-generation owner of Mustard Seed Market. “Violent crime, including gun violence, is a serious issue.”
Ongoing challenges
One of the biggest concerns raised by business owners is the rise of large, uncontrolled gatherings in parking lots, which they say often escalate into dangerous situations.
“We cannot allow that type of behavior,” Nabors said. “It’s what leads to some of the worst violence we’ve experienced.”
While some measures, such as security cameras, private security, and the closure of nearby lots, have been implemented and helped address some issues, many say more needs to be done.
Proposed solution: Special Improvement District
In response, business owners are backing a proposal led by Ward One Councilperson Fran Wilson to create a Special Improvement District (SID) in Highland Square.
The plan would involve approximately 15 property owners along West Market Street contributing funds over a three-year period. Those funds would support:
- Daytime beautification projects.
- Family-friendly programming.
- Nighttime safety patrols staffed by trained personnel.
“We want to create a welcoming environment without intimidation,” Wilson said. “The goal is to have friendly, safety-trained individuals helping maintain a positive atmosphere.”
According to Wilson, support for the initiative has been widespread among local business owners.
“There’s been strong momentum,” she said. “Business owners have really driven this effort because they want to see meaningful change.”
Looking ahead
The proposal still requires city approval, but supporters are working to expedite the process.
The goal is simple: restore Highland Square as a safe, vibrant destination where people feel comfortable gathering, day and night.
“I want people to feel safe. I want it to be fun again,” Wilson said. “Highland Square is a staple in the Akron community, and it’s worth the investment.”
Officials say they will continue monitoring progress as the plan develops. We'll continue to follow the progress.
City statement
A day after our report aired, the city released a statement supporting an SID and outlining improved safety measures.
The City of Akron is continuing to stand up the Special Improvement District (SID) which has been established in the Highland Square neighborhood.
A SID is a defined geographic area where property owners in the footprint pay an assessment to fund extra services benefiting that district. This could cover additional security, beautification, litter pick up, and more. Downtown Akron is part of a SID which is the primary funding source for Downtown Akron Partnership’s core services in the downtown footprint.
A board has been established in the Highland Square SID to draft a Services Plan to identify what services would be funded by an assessment. That board is made up of property owners in the footprint. Once a Services Plan has been finalized, the city will create a petition which will require property owners that represent 60% of the front footage of the SID to approve the assessment. Then, legislation will be brought to Akron City Council to approve the assessments.
While Akron continues to work towards a fully functioning SID in this district, several measures are being taken to improve safety in the corridor. Today, barriers were placed to block off a section of on street parking on W. Market St. in front of several bars. ... Parking is being directed to the City owned parking behind Chipotle instead. These barriers will remain in place through the Fall.
Additionally, beginning tonight, security will be patrolling the area on Friday and Saturday nights, and in coordination with Akron Police Department, they will assist with mitigating illegal open container activity in area. The city is also looking to install additional signage in the area to clarify the open container laws and remind patrons that the lot is being recorded.
“This has been a collaborative effort between the Malik administration, Akron Police, Ward 1 Councilmember Fran Wilson, business and property owners, and various city departments to make Highland Square a safer and more welcoming place for residents, businesses, and visitors,” said Chief of Public Safety Craig Morgan. “These steps are intended to improve traffic flow, reduce safety risks, and support a positive environment throughout the corridor. We appreciate the continued partnership of everyone working to support the neighborhood.”
“This work reflects a shared commitment to the Highland Square neighborhood and the people who live, work, and spend time here,” said Akron Mayor Shammas Malik. “By taking thoughtful, proactive steps, we are helping create a safer, more accessible environment that benefits the entire community.”
