News release from the City of Fort Wayne:
Mayor Henry announces projects for record year of over $20 million in infrastructure enhancements
Neighborhoods throughout City to see street, road, and sidewalk improvements(March 6, 2014) – Residents will see a record amount of neighborhood infrastructure enhancements in the City of Fort Wayne as part of the 2014 construction season.
Mayor Tom Henry today formally announced the list of projects that will result in an investment of over $20 million. Mayor Henry visited the Oxford neighborhood in southeast Fort Wayne to make today’s announcement. Concrete reconstruction and sidewalk and curb repairs will occur on Oxford Street from South Anthony Boulevard to Hessen Cassel Road. Mayor Henry was joined by members of the City of Fort Wayne’s Division of Public Works, elected officials, and community and neighborhood leaders.
A complete list of infrastructure projects can be found on the attached document. Highlights include 50 miles of paving, 10 miles of concrete reconstruction, brick street work, 12 miles of chip and seal repairs, sidewalk improvements, and curb and ramp repairs. The first projects are expected to begin in late March-early April, weather permitting.
Today’s announcement was made possible by the leadership of Mayor Henry’s Administration, the Fiscal Policy Group, neighborhood and business leaders, and the members of City Council who supported and passed a financial plan last summer that makes additional funding available on a yearly basis, $13.6 million in 2014, to assist with maintaining the City’s transportation system.
In addition to the $13.6 million, an infrastructure bond was advocated by Mayor Henry and received support from City Council that will provide an additional $10 million each year for three years beginning this year for street and road work. The bond, along with pay-as-you-go funding for future projects, will allow the City to complete the backlog of street and road projects by the end of 2018.
“We value the needs of our community. Residents have asked us to place an emphasis on streets, roads, and sidewalks. We listened to our residents, and we’re looking forward to getting started on projects that focus on neighborhoods, quality of life, economic development, and job creation. We’re investing in our future,” said Mayor Henry.
It’s anticipated the maintenance to the transportation system will create over 300 construction jobs that will provide a boost to the local economy.
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