Essence of Athens

Athens, Ohio

Why

Athens, Ohio is a forward-thinking town that doesn’t shy away from new ideas. Its a unique place, tucked in a valley in the Appalachian foothills, but it knows it could be even more special.

Community leaders were keen to build upon their assets to help continue attracting new residents, tourists, and businesses as well as students to Ohio University. This is why they came together to discuss how to make Athens a 100% original community and an uncopyable city.

How

The community was asked a simple question: “What is the Essence of Athens?” The collective answer helped the Designing Athens Committee understand and define the specific elements involved in making Athens an original city.

Nearly 500 photos were contributed by the community. These photos represented what makes Athens truly special. Several essays were also submitted.

What

Based on the community’s input, the committee agreed on a framework that should represent Athens in any new civic infrastructure projects and suggestions for commercial and residential development.

Essence of Athens is a framework for ideas to create Athens-specific civic infrastructure (roads, sidewalk, lights and poles, parking garage, pavers, staircases, community spaces, signs, benches, and anything that can be used and seen). The meetings were passionate. Their ideas were amazing.