NORTH ROYALTON, Ohio — In the quiet suburb of Cleveland, where winding roads are threads connecting the community, North Royalton is preparing for a long-awaited upgrade. The city council is likely to approve a contract for $818,010 with Specialized Construction Inc. for the overhaul of Abbey and Akin Roads. Funded in part by Kyagoga County grants, this project promises to eliminate potholes, cracks, and hazards that have frustrated drivers for years. For a city with growth ambitions, this is not just asphalt repair — it’s an investment in safety, economy, and the future, reflecting suburban America’s drive to modernize without losing its soul.
Roads that tell a story
Abbey Road, stretching from West Sprague Road to Ohio 82, and Akin Road, connecting State Road with the Broadway Heights border, are arteries of North Royalton. Abbey, particularly its one-and-a-half-mile section between Albion Road and the Ohio Turnpike overpass, suffers from edge cracks, potholes, and patches reminiscent of decades of wear. Akin, about a mile long, is in poor condition: ruts and uneven surfaces pose risks of accidents and tire damage. “These roads are more than just routes from point A to point B —,” says city engineer Matthew Glass, “— they connect families, schools, businesses. Their condition affects quality of life.”
The project, initially planned as two separate repairs, was combined to save resources. Glass estimates the total cost could reach $1.1 million, but the proposal from Specialized Construction — $818,010 — was the most economical. It beat five competitors, including Crossroads Asphalt Recycling ($848,972) and Ronyak Paving ($872,551). “Specialized has established itself in the region,” notes Glass in a memo to Mayor Larry Antoskiewicz, “— their work in Kyagoga, Medina, and Summit counties meets our quality standards.”
Funding is secured by two Kyagoga County grants: $250,000 for Abbey, allocated back in 2021, and the same amount for Akin in 2025. These funds, along with the municipal budget, prevent additional tax burdens. “This is an example of smart management,” says council member Linda Barberio, “— we’re improving infrastructure using external funding.”
Why the delay?
The Abbey repair was scheduled to start in 2021 but was postponed due to a sewer project that dragged into 2023. “That was frustrating,” admits Abbey Road resident Margaret Fitzpatrick, “— but we saw how hard it was to finish the sewer work. Now I’m glad the roads will finally be taken care of.” Akin, though not delayed as much, remained in queue for years due to limited budget. The 2025 grant was pivotal, enabling the city to move forward.
The work will include milling of old asphalt, strengthening the base, applying a new surface, and updating markings. Both roads will be kept open to two-way traffic during construction, though temporary restrictions may apply. “We aim to minimize inconvenience,” assures Glass, “— but the results are worth the patience.” He predicts work will begin in July and be completed by November 2025, weather permitting.
Community at a crossroads
North Royalton, with a population of 31,000, is a suburb proud of its family-friendly atmosphere, quality schools, and green parks. But poor road conditions, like Abbey and Akin, have often drawn criticism. On platform X, residents complained about potholes damaging tires and uneven surfaces complicating trips to Royalton Plaza or local schools. “Abbey is a nightmare for suspension,” wrote user @NRDriver2024. “Finally, they’re doing something!”
For local businesses, such as Brewed Awakening coffee shop on State Road, Akin’s repair is an opportunity to attract more customers. “A smooth road means more visitors,” says owner Emily Carter. “It’s good for all of us.” Meanwhile, some residents, like Tom Wilson on Akin Road, worry about traffic disruptions. “I hope they won’t shut everything down all at once,” he told North Royalton Post.
Mayor Antoskiewicz, who has led the city since 2012, sees the project as a symbol of progress. “North Royalton is growing, and we must meet expectations,” he said at a recent community meeting. “Good roads are the foundation of a strong city.” According to the chamber of commerce, the city attracts new families and businesses, but competition from neighboring Parma and Strongsville requires investment in infrastructure.
The challenges of American roads
The project in North Royalton reflects a broader issue: the decline of U.S. infrastructure. According to the 2023 report by the American Society of Civil Engineers, 43% of Ohio’s roads are in “poor” or “mediocre” condition, costing drivers in the state $7 billion annually in vehicle repairs and congestion. The 2021 federal infrastructure law, which directed billions to local projects, gave cities like North Royalton a chance to act, but needs still far outweigh funding.
Critics like local activist James Cook argue that the city could spend funds on other priorities, such as modernizing schools or parks. “Roads are important, but why not think bigger?” he wrote in a letter to the council. Glass responded that roads are the foundation without which other initiatives lose purpose. “If you can’t reach the park or school safely, does it matter?” he asked.
Looking ahead
While North Royalton awaits the start of work, the community remains cautiously optimistic. For drivers like Fitzpatrick, who has been detouring around potholes for years, the repair represents a long-awaited victory. For the city, it’s a step toward regional competitiveness in a rapidly changing landscape. “We’re not just patching roads,” says Antoskiewicz. “We’re building a future where North Royalton remains a beloved home.”
In a world where infrastructure often reflects community priorities, the Abbey and Akin repairs are a promise from North Royalton to its residents: the road ahead will be smooth, safe, and full of opportunity.
