The airdock was built by Goodyear in 1929 and is now owned by Loral Defense Systems. It is the largest building in the world without interior supports. The explorer's bust was given to the city in 1938 by the Sicilian Society. The Council of Italian-Americans Societies of Summit County proposed moving the statue to North Hill but it is still on its pedestal in front of Akron Municipal Airport's terminal. The terminal building is now an Italian restaurant, Cafe Piscitelli, with an art deco look.
Planes still come and go nearby.
There is a grand view across to Derby Downs and the airdock. The Goodyear blimp Spirit of Akron, now based at Wingfoot Lake in Suffield Township, is more a symbol of Akron these days than the tire. I stopped for lunch at the New Era, the old bar-restaurant where East Market Street and Massillon Road meet. It has built its reputation on substantial food and yummy strudel. When dining alone I usually try to have reading or writing matter so that I don't gulp down the food.