The Future Of Downtown Akron

What’s next for Downtown Akron?

Find out on Tuesday December 9, when the Akron Press Club welcomes Christopher J. Hardesty, the first Executive Director of the Downtown Akron Development Corporation.

He’ll talk about the nonprofit corporation’s mission to accelerate progress on downtown Akron’s most challenging development projects.

In his role, Hardesty is responsible for assembling funding, tracking development and investment, and collaborating with local government and regional partners, including the City of Akron, Summit County, Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce, Development Finance Authority, Summit County Land Bank, and Downtown Akron Partnership. will headline an Akron Press Club luncheon on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Quaker Station in downtown Akron.

The luncheon event won’t be just a one-way conversation, though. Audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions.

Event Details

Date: December 9, 2025

Location: Quaker Station, 135 S. Broadway, Akron, OH

(Please note: This luncheon will be held at Quaker Station, not Goodyear Hall.)

Doors open: 11 a.m. | Program begins: noon

Cost: $35 per person | $280 for a table of 8

RSVP deadline: Noon, Friday, Dec. 5th.

More info and reservations at Akronpressclub.org