GREEN, Ohio -- After about four months of construction, the Akron-Canton Airport has opened its renovated tourism center as a resource for travelers to Stark and Summit counties, the airport announced Tuesday in a news release.

The terminal’s visitor information center provides visitor guides, maps and other information about museums, dining, entertainment and outdoor recreation. It is jointly operated by the airport, the Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau and Visit Canton, the Stark County Convention and Visitors’ Bureau.

The airport contracted with The Thrasher Group and Beaver Constructors for planning and construction in August. The three organizations shared the cost of the $175,000 renovations to the center, which first opened in the 1990s. Upgrades include a new reception desk, flooring, shelves, display cases and a smart TV for promotional graphics and video.

“The Akron-Canton Airport is a natural location to build visitors’ awareness of this region’s unique attractions and destinations, and visitors do not plan their experiences around county lines,” said Allyson Bussey, president of Visit Canton.

Ren Camacho, president & CEO of the Akron-Canton Airport, agreed that a combined tourism strategy is beneficial for the region and the airport.

“Creating a unified presence for the Akron-Canton area is vital in educating potential inbound travelers of the region’s many assets and worthiness," Camacho said. "And as tourism numbers increase, demand for air service increases, so it’s a win-win situation for the entire region.”

Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau President and CEO Gregg Mervis said the airport’s investments in the community "underscore their commitment to being a strategic partner with local businesses, educational institutions and economic development organizations.”

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