Akron Sells Historic Fire Station for Redevelopment

The former Fire Station No. 12 at 1852 W. Market St. will be converted into a new community hub.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Openings & Closings

A mid-century brick municipal building facade with wide apparatus bays, reflecting a repurposing of civic architecture in an urban setting. — The city of Akron has sold the historic Fire Station No. 12 to developers planning to convert the site into a multi-use community hub. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The city of Akron has agreed to sell the decommissioned Fire Station No. 12 for $75,000 to owners Lana and Brendan Jeter. The couple intends to transform the 1952 structure into a multi-use space named The Wallhaven Hop Shop.

Why it matters

This project aims to revitalize the property by introducing a community-focused hub featuring a cafe, co-working space, and gallery. The sale conditions ensure the city regains control of the asset if renovations are not completed within a two-year timeframe.

The city sold the fire station property for $75,000, with owners projecting renovation costs between $800,000 and $1 million. The facility must be fully operational within two years to satisfy the city's purchase contract.

The players

Lana and Brendan Jeter

The private buyers responsible for the acquisition and planned renovation of the decommissioned fire station.

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The local government body tasked with oversight of city property sales and development agenda items.

The details

The Jeters plan to renovate the site into a destination featuring a taproom, gallery, stage, and co-working space. Operations are scheduled to launch in phases, beginning with a bakery and cafe before expanding to full alcohol service.

The fire station building was originally constructed in 1952.
The city listed the property for sale in October 2025.
The planning committee approved the sale agenda item on October 26, 2026.
The sale is scheduled for the November 2, 2026, consent agenda.
The owners expect to have the facility operational by October 2027.

Market Landscape

The acquisition reflects a broader trend of private developers repurposing historic municipal assets to stimulate neighborhood growth. This move positions the Wallhaven area for increased commercial density by integrating office, retail, and hospitality functions into a legacy structure.

Residents can anticipate the arrival of a new neighborhood bakery, cafe, and community space once renovations conclude. The development agreement ensures that this long-vacant fire station is transformed into an active public venue.

The takeaway

Repurposing decommissioned municipal buildings can provide new economic opportunities for city neighborhoods. Residents should monitor local planning agendas for updates on construction progress and projected opening dates for the new cafe.