State Boulevard project moves forward

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) The city of Fort Wayne is planning a series of open houses for a controversial road project on West State Boulevard.

City officials want to change the layout of West State between Spy Run and Cass Street to improve flood control, traffic flow, and pedestrian and motorist safety. The city said they do want preserve the historic aspects of the neighborhood streets as well.

Leaders say they've gathered input from residents in the last four years from more than 30 meetings that have been held in the area.

While some people and local groups have be resistant to the change, City of Fort Wayne Public Information Officer Frank Suarez said several others are ready for it.

"Anytime there's a project, there's different views," said Suarez. "We've certainly had some residents that are very vocal about this, who don't seem to want anything done, but we've heard from a lot of residents and received petitions over 40 signatures from residents in that area who have said please move forward with this we want it."

During the open houses, residents can take a look at preliminary project designs and will have the opportunity to provide input on design elements such as landscaping and lighting.  

Residents can stop by the open houses anytime during the two hours they are scheduled for.

Open House Schedule

February 25, 2013, 5:00 PM- 7:00 PM
Franke Pond Pavilion
Franke Parke
3411 Sherman Boulevard

March 1, 2013 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Main Branch ACPL
Meeting Room A, 900 Library Plaza

March 7, 2013 5:00 PM- 7:00 PM
Psi Ote Barn - Lower Level
Bob Arnold - Northside Park
E. State Blvd. & Parnell Avenue

To view renderings online and read more about the project, residents can visit the www.cityoffortwayne.org and click the State Boulevard Renderings slide in the slideshow or they can go directly to the information at www.cityoffortwayne.org/state .