Henry Seeks $10M From Legacy Fund

Tom Henry came into office in 2008.

Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry is requesting $10 million from the city’s Legacy Fund. The money would support the first phase of long-term Riverfront redevelopment efforts. Henry says the total investment is projected to be $20 million. Additional funds could come from private donors and potentially Regional Cities Initiative funding.

The first phase is focused on public spaces. Specific plans involve development on both sides of the St. Marys River, including a promenade, park pavilion, event space, terraces, a central plaza, elevated boardwalk and children’s play area.

The request will go before the Legacy Joint Funding Committee next Wednesday. If it proceeds, the proposal could be introduced to the City Council November 22, discussed December 6 and potentially voted on December 13.

Henry says "this request demonstrates our commitment to making Fort Wayne’s riverfront a world-class development and positions us to be considered for financial contributions from other organizations. Riverfront development is critical to the current and future success of our City and region. We must continue to emphasize quality of place amenities to attract and retain talent and businesses and make Fort Wayne and northeast Indiana a point of destination to invest in."

If all approvals are met and the city’s parks department closes on pending land acquisition efforts, construction on the first phase would start next year and wrap up in 2018.

You can connect to more about the redevelopment plans by clicking here.