Businesses Planning Fort Wayne Expansions

(L to R) Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry

Two companies in Fort Wayne have announced multi-million dollar expansion plans. Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry says the projects from Wisconsin-based Menards and Kelley Automotive Group of Fort Wayne are expected to generate up to $50 million in tax revenue for the city.

Menards is planning to invest up to $6 million to enhance customer pickup for residential and commercial customers. The company says the expansions will take place at its store on Illinois Road and its store on Meijer Drive in Fort Wayne.

Fort Wayne-based Kelley Automotive says it will also move five car dealerships to a spot adjacent to the Menards on Illinois Road. The Journal Gazette reports Kelley is acquiring the land from Menards owner John Menard. The city says the move will cost up to $50 million to complete.

The city says it will work with the developers on any necessary public infrastructure improvements. There was no word on whether any jobs would be created as a result of the projects.