Akron’s historic Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens will open its gates to pandemic-weary residents to take a stroll — albeit at a socially acceptable distance from one another.

The historic home and other buildings of Goodyear founder F.A. Seiberling will remain closed to visitors amid fears over the potential spread of the coronavirus.

Staff plans to monitor the number of visitors to ensure everyone can maintain a safe distance and not overrun the gardens.

The first day the grounds will be open to the public free of charge will be Friday.

The first hour and half from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. will be reserved for senior citizens with the remaining hours being from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be no public restroom facilities available.

The historic home is at 714 North Portage Path in Akron.

Sean M. Joyce, president and executive director of Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, said discussions about opening the grounds and the gardens as a public park have been in the works for several weeks.

With the gardens just starting to bloom, he said, the timing could not be more perfect.

"We are just happy to be able to be a safe resource for the community to get outside and enjoy some relief from the current situation," Joyce said in a statement. "Stan Hywet is a beautiful place, and we believe that if F.A. and Gertrude Seiberling were still living here today, they'd find a way to help the community during this crisis."

Joyce added the decision to open the grounds was made with the blessing of the Summit County Public Health and with the assistance of state Rep. Bill Roemer and Summit County Councilwoman Bethany McKenney.

"I'm grateful for how Stan Hywet wants to open up its stunning grounds for everyone to enjoy, especially as spring is coming alive and the flowers are blooming, but to do it in a safe way," McKenney said in a statement. "It gives us hope and we need hope."

The gardens will be open Wednesdays through Sundays and donations will be accepted. It will be closed to public access Mondays and Tuesdays.

Craig Webb can be reached at cwebb@thebeaconjournal.com.