Kent Seeks Public Input on West Elm Street Improvements

The City of Kent is moving forward with plans to improve West Elm Street and wants residents to weigh in on the project during a public meeting next month.

The street improvement project will span West Elm from Cedar/Dodge Street to South Water Street. City officials say there have been ongoing concerns about on-street parking in the area and potential safety issues that need to be addressed.

Kent has been systematically upgrading streets in the south district over the past 18 years as part of an ongoing infrastructure program. Previous improvements included portions of Walnut, Pine and Cedar streets.

The public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 10 at 6:00 p.m. at Holden Elementary School. City Engineer Jim Bowling will present details about the project and gather community feedback.

Officials emphasize the project is still in early development stages and resident input will be crucial in shaping the final design. The city is also seeking volunteers to serve on a Citizens Advisory Committee to help guide the project through the design process.

Residents who cannot attend the meeting but want to share comments or volunteer for the advisory committee can contact Bowling at 330-678-8106 or Jim.Bowling@KentOhio.gov.