Fort Wayne’s riverfront development project has been in the works for years, and its first phase is expected to be completed by Summer 2019. A few details have already emerged about the project’s grand opening.
The ribbon will be cut on Friday, June 21, and -- perhaps appropriately -- shares the date with the 2019 summer solstice. The city is planning a two- or three-day weekend event for the occasion.
Mayor Tom Henry revealed the plans during a conversation with WBOI Friday morning. He says the purpose of a celebration over multiple days is two-pronged.
“We’re going to show everyone what we can do as a public entity in phase one, and we hope to set the table then for a public-private partnership on phases two and three,” said Henry.
Henry also said a $61 million mixed-use development for the project, publicly introduced in 2017 and approved by the Plan Commission in November, will likely begin next year.
Fort Wayne’s riverfront development formally began with its master plan in early 2015, and a ceremonial groundbreaking was held in June 2017. The first phase introduces the Promenade, which was designed by the Riverworks Design Group and cost $20 million, funded by Regional Cities money, Legacy dollars and private donations.
