Plain

Plain Township is anything but, with a pair of amphitheaters, quick access to downtown Canton for work, shopping or fun and a selection of housing choices as approachable to entry-level buyers as those ready to spend more than half a million dollars. About three miles north of Canton, Plain Township’s old maple and evergreen trees build on a neighborhood feel already set by numerous homes constructed in the 1960s and 1970s. Plain Township is comprised of several smaller communities, some with lakefront access and others closer to Canton and commercial properties. One reason buyers express interest in this area is the cost of the homes. “In Stark County alone, our average price point is very competitive,” says Beth Dibell, Realtor and Manager of Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realty. “So is the cost of living, even with rent and groceries.” Another big draw is the recreation, both indoor and outdoor. Folks can divide their days off between a golf course, a trail and ample outdoor entertainment selections. Houses vary greatly by the areas within this neighborhood. Those located on the southwestern edge are “at a more entry-level price point,” says Scott Haws, Plain Township trustee since 2010. Many were built in the mid-20th century. One-story traditional or ranch-style homes fall within the $90,000 to $200,000 range. On the western edge of Central-Allied Lake, prices are usually between $400,000 and $600,000 for approximately 3,000-square-foot, 1990s-era homes with lake access. On the other side of the lake, 1970s split levels are prevalent, fetching around $200,000. “It’s the best little hidden gem,” says Haws. “If homes are listed at a reasonable price, they don’t last long.” Not all with a lakefront residence have access, however. “Owners must pay upfront for lake rights, and it’s part of the deed. Some people have tried to add access later, and they can’t,” says Haws. Plain Township’s commuters can catch a Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) bus from Market Avenue to downtown Canton. SARTA Buses take around 15 minutes to reach downtown, passing each stop hourly from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Residents commuting outside Canton by car can hop right on Route 62, and Interstate 77 is just 2 miles west. The Akron-Canton Airport is approximately 10 miles north, connecting locals with direct flights to destinations in Florida and along the East Coast. The nearest medical facility is the Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital, just under 2 miles south. Locals can find groceries at the Aldi along Harmont Avenue. A Walmart Supercenter is less than 1 mile south of Atlantic Boulevard. Residents can shop locally-owned businesses, too, like Dioguardi’s. This Italian market and deli has been selling freshly made pasta in the area for over 100 years. Plain Township Trustees recently worked on an incentive to repair Oakwood Square Plaza, drawing in new businesses and creating a designated outdoor refreshment area, or DORA. The plaza is 1 mile north of Central-Allied Lake, housing John’s Bar and Grille and The Bistro of Oakwood. There are also several chain restaurants along Atlantic Boulevard for those in need of something quick. Stark County maintains several trails around Canton. The Middle Branch Trail runs through Plain Township. “It’s relatively flat, but sometimes the creek floods after a heavy rain, so you have to watch for that,” says Haws. “Stark Parks does a great job of taking care of the trail.” Locals who enjoy golf can try Meadowlake, a public 18-hole golf course near Market Avenue. Meadowlake also has a pool that’s open to season pass holders during the summer months. “Not only do we have beautiful golf courses in the area, but we have several indoor golf simulator places,” says Dibell. “My favorite is X-Golf, it’s right by Sky Zone.” Students in the area attend Ransom H. Barr Elementary School, which rates A on Niche. Oakwood Middle School receives a B-plus. Glenoak High School gets a B and offers students performing arts and debate programs. Students at Glenoak can also opt to earn an International Baccalaureate Programme Diploma. Residents don’t have to travel for entertainment. The Plain Township Amphitheater hosts live music and outdoor gatherings in partnership with the Oakwood Square Plaza called 720 Sidestreet Markets. Patios make for convenient spots to sit and watch the national acts that come through. “You could be eating on a patio and still enjoy the music from the amphitheater,” says Dibell. The Plaza also holds farmers’ markets and a seasonal Light Up festival to begin the holiday season. Another spot for enjoying live music is the Nash Family Jackson Amphitheater, known for being the ideal summer venue. “They have tribute bands that are really good and inexpensive,” says Dibell. “It’s a great evening for families.”