Hoban’s neighborhood under development

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November 13, 2009

Pete DelMedico

Driving down Inman St. early in the morning, the dim lit, stately Dowed Field is briefly seen and then engulfed by a host of worn-out homes. As drivers round the corner and proceed up the hill, the rising sun illuminates a renewed side of the neighborhood that precedes the entrance of 1 Holy Cross Blvd.

Hoban has been making visual upgrades as well as property extensions since its existence. Many years ago Hoban purchased and tore down several dilapidated houses that expanded the upper parking lots. This same approach was used down by the stadium to make room for exterior lots on either side. A major player to Hoban’s development has been physical plan manager, Mike Considine. For years he has been a key part of the demolition and reconstruction of these grounds.

“We have not actively gone up and down the streets looking for houses,” said Mike Considine. “One of these houses was empty and bought at a low price. The other was given as a donation to Hoban.”

Though their investments and construction have been successful for the school, Hoban administrators are not playing monopoly with the neighborhood.

“We will buy more of these properties when the prices are appropriate and the purchases will better the schools appearance and facilities,” President Brother Ken said.

Plans for more than just parking lots around the stadium are set in place.

“We would like to make a circular drop off and a nice, grassy area adjacent to the stadium,” Brother Ken said. “Our main goals are to make Hoban more accessible and appealing.”

Rumors have been circulating about the land behind the science wing, often called “Hader’s Hill.” Talk of tennis courts or possibly a field house has surfaced. Plans for this construction brighten the future view of Hoban’s campus even more.

“I can’t believe how different it is driving up to the hill,” 1999 graduate Rob Treichel said. “I can confidently say it’s the best looking school in Akron.”

Though remarkable improvements have been made, the restoration of the campus is an ongoing project.

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One Response to “Hoban’s neighborhood under development”

  1. Uncle Don Says:
    November 23rd, 2009 at 9:46 pm

    ““We have not actively gone up and down the streets looking for houses,” said Mike Considine. “One of these houses was empty and bought at a low price. The other was given as a donation to Hoban.””

    Good for you Bother Ken, Mike, and Hoban! Patience, and letting God work in His perfect timing is a Christian virtue!

    “Though their investments and construction have been successful for the school, Hoban administrators are not playing monopoly with the neighborhood.”

    Nor should you. These are the homes and castles of modest people of modest means.

    The family of one of my classmates from The Class of 1972 lived in one of these homes behind the football stadium, just to put my comments in perspective.

    Uncle Don

    [Reply]

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