Community Leaders Unite to Endorse Revitalization
FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Greater Fort Wayne (GFW) Inc. Board of Directors formally supports revitalizing Fort Wayne’s sidewalks, alleys and Riverfront area. Today, board members unanimously voted to endorse a proposed Fort Wayne City Council ordinance that would fund these key infrastructure projects.
Basic infrastructure has become an increasingly pressing issue in recent years–especially for school children. Due to funding cuts, Fort Wayne Community Schools was forced to eliminate bus transportation for about 7,000 students. The proposed ordinance would repair existing sidewalks and create new sidewalks, increasing walkability and safety for people of all ages.
“Many of the sidewalks near our schools are damaged or incomplete. In some cases, the only option for our students is to walk in or near the road, which is clearly a child safety hazard,” said Dr. Wendy Robinson, Superintendent of Fort Wayne Community Schools and a GFW Inc. board member. “Especially with more students walking to school, we owe it to our kids to give them a safe path to the education they deserve.”
The ordinance would also transform the banks of the St. Marys River into a signature community landmark. According to local business leaders, Riverfront development will help boost jobs and wages in northeast Indiana.
“Developing our Riverfront into a vibrant destination will help push our community from good to great,” said Ray Kusisto, CEO of Ortho NorthEast and a GFW Inc. board member. “A thriving Riverfront will also be a crucial element in attracting and retaining the highly skilled people we need to fill job openings in our region. This initiative is a game changer that will pay dividends now and for decades to come, as our community continues to compete for jobs and better wages.”
The GFW Inc. Board of Directors is comprised of 53 community leaders. They represent a diverse cross-section of local companies, nonprofits and citizens.
“Improvements to our sidewalks and alleys will make a very real difference in neighborhoods throughout the community,” said Cozey Baker, Chief Finance Officer of the Fort Wayne Black Chamber of Commerce and a GFW Inc. board member. “This is a concrete solution to make our city cleaner, safer and more accessible for everyone.”
City Council will host a public meeting to discuss the proposed Local Income Tax (LIT) adjustment at 5:30 p.m. on June 27. City Council will also discuss and vote on the proposal at 5:30 p.m. on July 11. Both meetings will be held in Room 35, Garden Level of the Citizens Square Building, 200 E. Berry Street.
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About Greater Fort Wayne Inc.
Greater Fort Wayne (GFW) Inc. serves Fort Wayne and Allen County, Indiana, as its metro chamber alliance and primary point of contact for economic growth. GFW Inc., focuses on prosperity and community vibrancy through economic development, advocacy, programs and resources that support business success, leadership development, graduate retention and community engagement. To learn more, visit www.greaterfortwayneinc.com.
Greater Fort Wayne Inc. is a nonprofit membership organization serving the business community in Fort Wayne and Allen County, Indiana. Policies and positions expressed in this announcement do not represent those of any elected officials or government entities, and do not represent endorsement, recommendation or favoring by any such officials or entities.
