PRESERVE THE VALLEY [GATEWAY COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP] fosters cultural, commercial, and recreational facilities, activities, and amenities that support ecological sustainability and protect the area's natural resources for the benefit of residents and to enhance the experience of visitors to the Cuyahoga Valley and National Park.

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We are a volunteer group dedicated to engaging people and amplifying businesses for the purpose of protecting, planning, and caring for our shared natural environment.  We believe that the valley and the National Park are our greatest asset and requires our attention.

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The PTV[GCP} strive to engage families and individuals in activities and events that are consistent with our goals.  We endeavor to enrich their experiences in the valley and benefit the natural environment.

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PTV[GCP] connects with advocates for our valley partners so that they can thrive.  We facilitate an elevated recognition and awareness of their efforts and services by teaming up on activities, programs and endeavors.  Our goal is to better the valley gateway businesses by collectively working to improve visitor's experiences and preserve the natural beauty that enriches their lives.

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More notable PTV accomplishments:

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• 'Preserve The Valley' was formed in 2020 in response to the potential sale of Theiss Woods property for residential development.  Their initial efforts to halt the development were successful.  Theiss Woods preservation efforts remain ongoing.

• 'Preserve The Valley' worked with the cities of Akron and Cuyahoga Falls to adopt the Merriman Valley-Schumacher Master Plan and Form Based Code.  The creation of Preserve The Valley Gateway Community Partnership represents yet another step forward for 'Preserve The Valley' and the legacy of 'Preserve The Valley' will continue under PTVGCP.

• Became the local, community-based environmental presence used for local governments when they need citizen endorsement

• Provided input in curtailing some of the Riverwood development plan

• Introduced to the region the concept of Gateway Communities to National Parks, resulting in the Cities of Akron, Cuyahoga Falls and Peninsula passing resolutions in 2022

• Advocated for a sidewalk on Portage Trail, where a new multi-use path is almost complete as of August 2025

• Held five (and counting!) annual Valley Trash Cleanups in collaboration with Keep Akron Beautiful 

• Created Environmental Voters’ Guide for Akron Mayoral & City Council Candidates

• Participated in Environmental Justice Candidates Forum as part of a coalition

• Held Community Informational Meetings on: Tax abatements and alternative programs, Gateway Communities, Land Preservations options with Western Reserve Land Conservancy, Form-based Code, Riparian Setback as requested by the City of Akron

• Held Save Theiss Woods Art Contest with prizes from supportive area businesses for students K-12

• Published two thoroughly researched briefs: Riverwood and Theiss Woods​

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Have questions or want more information? 

Email us at: info@preservethevalley.com