Welty Enterprises broke ground Thursday on the CitiCenter project, converting the 95‑year‑old former Young Women’s Christian Association building in downtown Akron into a modern residential complex. The ceremony featured city leaders, including Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro’s assistant chief of staff Greta Johnson, Akron Mayor Shammas Malik, and Welty Enterprises Chairman and CEO Donzell Taylor.
Project details and investment
Welty purchased the historic structure last year for $769,210. Taylor announced a $37 million investment to transform the building into roughly 115 apartments, providing new housing options for downtown residents. The development will preserve the building’s historic façade while adding contemporary amenities.
Local leadership and community impact
During the groundbreaking, Johnson, who also serves as the county’s communications director, symbolically used a sledgehammer to mark the start of construction. Mayor Malik, a former user of the building’s early‑morning spin‑class space, also participated, underscoring the city’s support for revitalizing the area.
Taylor emphasized the personal significance of the project, noting that he grew up in Akron and sees the investment as a way to give back to his hometown. “CitiCenter and all of our investments in Akron are personal to me. I want to give back and do my part to make the next version of Akron the best version yet,” he said.
Economic benefits
The project is Welty’s ninth investment in Akron, reflecting a growing confidence in the city’s economic outlook. Taylor highlighted that the development will generate construction jobs in the short term and, once completed, increase the city’s tax base. Local officials anticipate a positive ripple effect for nearby businesses as new residents move into the downtown core.
Historical context
The building has served the community since 1931, first as a YWCA facility, then as city office space beginning in 1993. Its conversion to residential use marks the latest chapter in a series of downtown redevelopment efforts aimed at revitalizing Akron’s urban core.
Next steps
Construction is slated to continue through 2028, with the first apartments expected to be ready for occupancy in late 2029. City officials will monitor progress and work with Welty Enterprises to ensure the project aligns with Akron’s broader downtown revitalization plan.
Original reporting: Signal Akron — read the source article.
