Our Vision
The Re-establishment of Akron’s Liberty Commons is richly rooted in NE Ohio history. Our vision is to foster a unique blend of dining, services and spaces that will service the Akron community. We want all NorthEast Ohio residents and visitors to experience our bars, restaurants, and outdoor patios to enjoy the scenic Merriman Valley views.
The History & Rebirth of Liberty Commons
History of Liberty Commons
In a past life, Merriman Valley was known as Northampton Township and served as a farming community along the Cuyahoga River. Unlike the rest of Akron, Merriman Valley didn’t start to boom until the latter half of the 20th century. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the land was annexed by Akron and Cuyahoga Falls, with the last pieces of land ultimately merging with Cuyahoga Falls in 1986.
Current State of Liberty Commons
In recent years, Merriman Valley has become a shining light for local businesses to flourish.
In addition to being a shopping and dining center, the Akron half of Merriman Valley is also home to roughly 6,000 people and has the lowest vacancy rate of the neighborhoods in Akron.
As of right now, the restaurant and retail part of Liberty Commons is home to beloved Akron businesses, including the newest fine dining restaurant, Stirling.
Future Plans for Liberty Commons
Despite the number of people who already live in Merriman Valley and it is considered one of the more affluent areas of Akron, the ultimate goal of Liberty Commons is to become a more developed and desirable part of the Valley.
We are protecting the natural green space in the Valley as well as adding more conservation efforts. Redevelopment of existing businesses are important to us to maintain biodiversity and protect ecosystems.
Liberty Commons is a popular day-trip destination, offering a variety of shopping and dining experiences, as well as direct access to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. As we continue to add more shops and restaurants, join us at Liberty Commons and be a part of its rebirth.
