June 12, 2025
One of six to reopen in 2025
Fort Wayne, Ind. – Mayor Sharon Tucker joined Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel, parks staff, public officials and neighborhood association representatives to officially dedicate the new Lakeside Park Playground, located at 1401 Lake Avenue in the heart of the Northside Neighborhood.
The new playground is one of six new playgrounds scheduled to open in neighborhood parks in 2025. Each will feature inclusive play areas designed to support physical, sensory and social development for children of all ages and abilities.
In 2024, the City of Fort Wayne earmarked $1.2 million for six playground projects—at Jehl Park, Lakeside Park, Franke Park, Waynedale Park, Indian Village Park and McCormick Park—following the City receiving a local income tax supplemental distribution from the State of Indiana of $15.3 million. Projects are focusing on strengthening neighborhoods and enhancing quality of life opportunities for the public
Additional support was provided by the AWS Foundation, which awarded funding in 2024 to enhance accessibility over the next three years. As part of the 2025 upgrades, the Foundation’s support will fund the installation of accessible turf surfacing at the Indian Village Park playground.
“The new playgrounds throughout Fort Wayne represent a strong partnership between my administration, City Council, residents, and neighborhoods to bring forward and implement projects that will have a lasting impact for individuals and families,” said Mayor Tucker. “We’re demonstrating an unwavering commitment to being a fun, family-friendly, and safe community.”
“We endeavor to plan parks that are inviting and well-maintained, reflecting high standards of design, accessibility and environmental stewardship,” said Director McDaniel. “These new playgrounds reflect our dedication to building welcoming spaces that bring people together, spark imagination and give every child the opportunity to play without barriers.”
The new Lakeside Park playground includes inclusive features such as Ocean Seesaw, Sensory Multi-play Panels, a Custom Triple Tower, Wave Stepper, Water Lilies Rocker and Swings in two age ranges designed to ensure a rewarding experience for all users.
All six new playgrounds are expected to be refreshed and ready for action by the end of June or sooner. To see the full schedule of 2025 playground projects, visit https://engage.cityoffortwayne.org/
