Mayor: Fort Wayne is ‘Point of Destination’

By Alex Brown | Inside INdiana Business

The mayor of Fort Wayne touted the city's successes over the past year in Wednesday's State of the City address. Tom Henry said investments in the city's downtown development, along with future investments in infrastructure and public safety are making Fort Wayne a "point of destination."

Henry says the city plans to invest $25 million this year in neighborhood infrastructure projects this year, including efforts to improve streets, roads, sidewalks, curbs, ADA ramps and street lighting. Additionally, $5 million in parks improvements will be made in 2017. 

"Now more than ever before, I’m optimistic about Fort Wayne’s future. I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished and what’s ahead for our community," said Henry. "Together we’re better to address challenges and continue the momentum and successes we’re experiencing. Being a point of destination is critical in our efforts to provide quality of place amenities to set ourselves apart as a leader in attracting and retaining jobs, businesses, individuals and families."

Henry says 750 jobs were created and nearly 3,000 jobs were retained last year with a total business investment of $421 million. He also touted work on several major downtown developments, including the Skyline Tower and Cityscape Flats, both of which remain under construction. Work is also expected to begin this year on the $32 million The Landing project, which this week received a recommendation for Regional Cities Initiative funding, and phase one of the Riverfront development project.

The mayor also announced 28 new police officers will be added in 2017, along with three new fire engines for the Fort Wayne Fire Department.

You can read mayor's full address by clicking here.