Fort Wayne lands $23M federal grant for railroad underpass project
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The Federal Railroad Administration has awarded a $23.2 million grant to support a railroad underpass project in Fort Wayne, the city announced Monday.
The project will see the reconstruction a portion of Airport Expressway on the city’s southeast side with the goal of improving safety and eliminating traffic delays.
The city said about 2,500 feet of Airport Expressway will be reconstructed to build an overpass with retention walls and sloped banks over the railroad.
“Fort Wayne’s emphasis on prioritizing infrastructure upgrades and safety for the public has been recognized with this substantial grant,” said Mayor Sharon Tucker. “This project will be a game changer for many years to come as we work each day to make important improvements in our community that will provide an enhanced quality of life for all and position us for future economic development opportunities and positive growth.”
The Fort Wayne City Council is slated to vote on approving the grant later this year, with design, environmental work, land acquisition, and utility relocations expected to occur over the next few years.
Construction could begin in 2027 and be complete by late 2028, according to the city.
The federal grant will cover about 80% of the project’s cost, with $5.8 million in local funding covering the remainder, though the city did not specify where in the budget that money would come from.
“We’re looking forward to making the needed improvements along Airport Expressway,” City Engineer Patrick Zaharako said in the release. “The Public Works Division is committed to providing a safe and efficient transportation system for residents, neighborhoods, and businesses. This project will have a lasting and meaningful impact.”
The city said it plans to hold public meetings in the future as the project develops.