highland square revitalization concept 9 market analysis greater akron and the business district region is located in heart of northeastern ohio an area rich commercial industrial history comprised summit portage medina counties has been home to rubber industry since late 19 th century also well situated serve as a transportation hub for variety other industries its proximity 42 major cities air sea rail road thoroughfares makes it attractive location corporate headquarters eight fortune 1000 companies have their offices s center began 1827 with opening canal that connected lake erie river put young city on important new trade route early included match making pottery sewage pipe production beginning 1862 became several cereal mills first which produced oats 1870 bf goodrich launched golden age when opened mill west alleghenies