AKRON -- The city of Akron says it will begin emergency demolition of the Rubber Bowl next week.
The city says the site poses a safety risk to the public as it's fallen into a state of disrepair.
Funding will limit the initial demolition to just the most dangerous areas, including the scoreboard and the portion near the Derby Downs. The city says the structure could pose a threat to derbygoers.
The portion of the Rubber Bowl along George Washington Boulevard will remain standing until additional funding is obtained.
Half of the $200,000 cost of the first phase of demolition comes from the capital improvement fund from the state, while $50,000 comes from the city of Akron's capital fund and the final $50,000 comes from grants via the Land Bank.
PHOTOS | Inside Akron's abandoned Rubber Bowl
“The demolition of the Rubber Bowl represents the end of an era,” Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan said in a news release issued Tuesday. “Like many Akron residents, I have fond memories of attending football games and other events there throughout my life. However, the structure is well beyond repair and now poses a danger to the public. Its time for us to honor the rich history of the Rubber Bowl while making way for a safer and improved use for the site. We thank our state delegation and partners at the County for their partnership to support this necessary project.”
The Rubber Bowl was built in 1940 and housed the University of Akron football team until 2008. The university transferred the property to private ownership in 2013. The site was condemned in 2017.