Public weighs in on abandoned lot

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - People in Fort Wayne are trying to decide what to do with the old Dimension Ford lot along Jefferson Boulevard. The Parks Department wants to build a park that connects with Swinney Park, so at a public meeting on Thursday people gave ideas.

The lot has been vacant for a few years, and the Parks Department will take over control of the property sometime this summer.

"Do we just extend West Swinney Park, make it a different venue?  We have to keep in mind also it is a flood way," said Al Moll, Parks and Recreation.

Thursday night people tossed around ideas. First they came up with what was good and bad about the property.

"Some people are concerned about the businesses adjacent to the property," said one Fort Wayne woman.

Then park related suggestions were thrown out. People brought up dog parks, gardens, soccer fields, playgrounds, and splash pads.

"I'd like to see community gardens and orchards," said one Fort Wayne woman.

"I'd like to see some comfortable sitting areas, in the shade where we can read," said another Fort Wayne woman.

This year the Parks Department has $100,000 to grow grass and plant trees. Money will still have to be raised though to build something on the land.

Department officials don't have a timetable for a plan, but they hope to complete the project in the next five years.