As the city of Fort Wayne prepares to begin construction on the first phase of its massive riverfront development project, there’s one more hurdle to jump before it can start.
Construction contracts totalling about $17 million have been reviewed by the Riverfront Advisory Committee, and they’re ready for the final step: City Council approval.
Funding for the contracts will be paid for with Legacy funds, Regional Cities money and private donations. The contracts are expected to be introduced to council on May 9, with votes expected on May 16 and 23.
While the focus is currently getting construction of the first phase off the ground, Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry noted the city is already beginning to make plans for the second of the three phases of riverfront development.
“We need to continuously look at what the future holds for Fort Wayne,” said Henry. “We have momentum and enthusiasm like we’ve never experienced before, and we have to keep that going. Only through that can we become the city that we all want.”
After council approval, crews will begin to work on the north bank in July, with south bank construction beginning in early September. Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Director Al Moll says he’s optimistic the first phase’s grand opening will be ready for spring 2019.
