Cuyahoga Falls Better Block

Samantha Coldwell and Getta Cornici, natives of Cuyahoga Falls, were inspired to bring the Better Block concept to the Falls Riverfront pedestrian mall after being involved in the North Hill Akron Better Block project. We transformed the mall into a space with vendors, a beachfront for kids, and a gathering ground for people to enjoy their community together. Prior to the event, the City of Cuyahoga Falls was working to restore the Riverfront Pedestrian Mall area and the Better Block. We used this project to showcase opportunity for the area and encourage entrepreneurial spirit on the Riverfront.
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The purpose behind this Better Block concept was to work with cities, developers, and stakeholders to create quick, inexpensive, high-impact changes that improve and revitalize underused properties and highlight the potential for creating great “Complete Streets”. The Better Block initiative creates a “quick win” using the “Better Block” approach that brings greater attention to developments prior to buildout, which in turn increases the potential for pre-leasing. Cuyahoga Falls Better Block was made possible through a grant given by Torchbearers via the Knight Foundation.

This was the first Better Block where Wikiblock elements were tested and used.

VIEW VIDEO: https://vimeo.com/151414443