Four buildings in Akron and Barberton will be rehabilitated with the aid of historic preservation tax credits from Ohio.
The former downtown Akron YWCA, an East Market Street warehouse, the old Barberton Herald building and an adjacent commercial structure are among 37 projects that will receive $56 million to preserve 42 buildings across the state.
The projects are expected to draw $715 million in private investments.
The Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program provides financial incentives for the private redevelopment of Ohio historic buildings that stand vacant or generate little economic activity. The state issues the tax credits to developers after project construction is complete.
“By preserving our historic buildings, we’re retaining the unique identity of Ohio’s communities,” Gov. Mike DeWine said in announcing the credits. “Through the tax credit program, we’re ensuring that future generations can experience the character and stories that shaped our state in the spaces where they happened.”