News release from the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation:
Mayor Henry Leads Groundbreaking Ceremony for Franklin School Park
(October 29, 2015) – Mayor Tom Henry and Parks & Recreation Director Al Moll today led a groundbreaking ceremony with neighborhood advocates to mark the beginning of phase one construction of Franklin School Park, located at 1903 St. Marys Ave. The City’s investment in this first phase is nearly $760,000 for design, construction and arch restoration.
“This unique project will be a tremendous benefit to residents and surrounding neighborhoods,” said Mayor Henry. “We’re committed to meeting the needs of our community. A new park is a great benefit and asset that enhances the quality of life amenities we offer in Fort Wayne. Franklin School Park is another example of the positive momentum we’re experiencing in our City.”
The City and neighborhood leaders worked together to ensure the property would be a desirable community asset and the resulting plans include a one of a kind splash pad, benches for seating, sidewalks connecting the new park with the neighborhood, a new restroom facility in the partially remodeled school garage, site lighting and landscaping.
“Franklin School Park is a model community project,” said Director Moll. “A group of leaders with a common interest organized and approached Mayor Henry with their request. He listened, provided his support, and soon the project was underway.”
Earthsource, Inc. is the landscape architecture firm responsible for the park site construction and bidding documents. Elevatus Architects designed the restroom remodel. Schenkel Construction is the general contractor for the park and restroom construction. The Parks & Recreation Department partnered with Design Collaborative and Engineering Resources to design the arches. Hamilton Hunter Builders was the general contractor for the arch restoration.
Phase One is expected to be complete in late summer 2016.
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