April 11, 2017
For Immediate Release
Contact: Natalie Eggeman (427-6028)
Public Information Officer
Fort Wayne, Ind— The Fort Wayne Parks & Recreation Department is pleased to announce that the Northeast Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA) has approved $5,170,480 in Regional Cities funding for Riverfront Development Phase 1.
“We’re thrilled that the RDA approved 98% of the funding we requested and now the project will be able to move forward as scheduled,” said Parks & Recreation Director Al Moll. “We’re excited to begin work on the community’s vision of Riverfront Fort Wayne—the first phase of a project that will evolve and develop to become a center of activity and a powerful source of regional pride.”
“The momentum and investments we continue to experience in Fort Wayne is encouraging as we work together to make a lasting impact in our community and region,” said Mayor Tom Henry. “We’re appreciative of the support we’ve received for riverfront development. Our commitment to the riverfront will enhance our position as a point of destination city.”
All Regional Cities projects must receive final approval from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC). The IEDC is expected to review today’s approval in the near future.
Riverfront construction will begin in late June of this year and it's anticipated to take 18 months. The dedication will likely be held in the spring of 2019.
The first phase of riverfront development will be focused on the public spaces in a park setting. Development would occur on the south and north sides of the St. Marys River between Harrison Street and the historic Wells Street Bridge. Highlights of the plans include a promenade, park pavilion, event lawn, entry plaza with sculpture/signage, urban bioswale, educational water feature, urban streetscape, central plaza, urban riverfront terraces, elevated boardwalk, dock, interactive sculpture, and children’s play area.
The team leading the design work is Riverworks Design Group, comprised of Design Collaborative, Forum Studio, Hoch Associates, Engineering Resources, American Structurepoint, and One Lucky Guitar. The Hagerman Group serves as Construction Manager.
