Not Defined

Activate the New Lock 3

Description

Implement creative, welcoming programming for Lock 3 Park to make it a year-round destination for Akron residents and visitors.

Why is This Important

Vibrant, well-attended programming draws residents together, supports local businesses, and showcases Akron as a destination which strengthens civic pride and downtown vitality.

Initiative Wins

  • Created and launched new Lock 3 logo and brand guidelines in 2025.

  • Raised $248,000 in philanthropic summer programming support in 2025 to support the first summer season at Lock 3 since reopening.

  • Hosted 80+ events and 201,000+ attendees in 2025, including signature celebrations like the Akron Marathon and Akron Pride Festival.

  • Completed two seasons of Winter Blast programming, drawing 15,000 visitors in 2024-2025 and 9,000+ in 2025-2026.

Impact Spotlight

What We’ve Done This Quarter
  • Completed the 2025-2026 Winter Blast season with 9,000+ visitors.

  • Launched a programming survey to shape the 2026 summer season, building on the 2025 survey that reached nearly 3,000 people.

  • Scheduled 110 total events, including 12 national touring acts.

What We’re Working on Next Quarter
  • Implementing 2026 summer programming, striving toward 250,000 annual visitors and activating year-long gathering, delivering signature events, expanding programming, enhancing the guest experience, and growing revenue and financial sustainability.

  • Announcing the installation of a signature art sculpture at Lock 3 created by a renowned artist.