The brand new Summit Lake Northshore Park had its grand opening on Saturday, it truly is a gem for Akron and I urge all of you to stop by and take a look. Now I know Summit Lake is not in Ward 8, but it is connected to us by the Ohio & Erie Towpath, so you could bike there to see the transformation that’s taken place after 11 years of planning in a collaborative effort by the Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition, City of Akron and private funders.
I remember my parents telling stories of the dance hall and amusement park at Summit Lake, but it’s really never been utilized for recreation in my lifetime. Summit Lake covers 100 acres of water and the new park includes a covered pavilion, boathouse with concessions, a fishing pier, free canoe and kayak rentals, ( with accessible launches) two picnic pavilions, a boat launch and fire pits with waterfront seating.
Northshore Park began as the vision of Dan Rice, the retiring president at the Ohio & Erie Canal Coalition over 10 year ago. After initial meetings with area residents to learn what they hoped for at Summit Lake, he learned folks wanted it to be a destination for families with boating fishing, walking and other amenities. The total price ended up at $8 million and was funded through a partnership of local, county and state governments, along with private donors and local foundations.
Whether its kayaking, canoeing, fishing, biking, hiking or just a quiet afternoon on the water, it’s worth the short drive to Summit Lake Northshore park at 540 W South St to enjoy this revitalized Park.