4. GUIDING PRINCIPLES

1. Build on what’s working North

Canton has a well-known identity as a safe community with excellent schools and well-maintained parks, streets, and infrastructure. Walsh

University - University District, updated zoning and maintenance codes. 2. Cultivate a business-friendly community to increase the number of small businesses along the

Corridor of Opportunity and expand the density of jobs in the city. 3. Focus attention on on the central segment of Main Street between

Charlotte and Bechtel. 4. To create a walkable destination for North

Canton residents, employees, and visitors. 5. Encourage and guide the development of the Hoover District, especially the west factory building which will have a significant impact on the vitality of the downtown district. 6. Better connect the University District to the downtown area to leverage the impact of Walsh University as a community asset and anchor. 7. Pursue land banking with a purpose, targeting sites for acquisition and development that create jobs and expand housing options in the city.

8. Attract young professionals and families to North Canton. Promote housing rehabilitation and infill housing to strengthen the city’s neighborhoods and attract new residents. North

Canton is an excellent community to age in place. Celebrate and reinforce this through programs that support longtime residents and value their commitment to the city. Outreach and targeted marketing efforts to encourage adult children of existing residents to rediscover the city and move back to

North Canton with their own children. 9. Encourage active and healthy lifestyles through the city’s park system, connections to Stark Parks and regional trail networks, and a walkable downtown district. 10. Focus on diversity, inclusion and accessibility—a vision of North Canton as a community for all ages and abilities.