Downtown is officially growing. After years of thoughtful planning and conversations with property owners across the city, the Downtown Fort Wayne Economic Improvement District (or Downtown Fort Wayne) has expanded by a whopping 42%, bringing beloved neighbors like the Wells Street corridor, the creative Broadway Arts District (stretching all the way to Electric Works), and Science Central into the fold. What was once 468 acres is now 667 acres of connected, thriving community.
This wasn’t just a paperwork exercise; it was a labor of love that started in early 2025 and brought together hundreds of voices from across Downtown. The reauthorization process required buy-in from property owners representing more than 60% of non-residential property value (up from 50% a decade ago), and Downtown Fort Wayne exceeded those goals. After filing the petition in July 2025 and working through the details, Fort Wayne City Council voted to support this exciting expansion.
So what does this mean for the DTFW community? Starting in 2026 and running through 2035, these newly included areas will enjoy the same Clean & Safe services, friendly ambassadors, business support, and signature events that have made Downtown such a special place. Whether you’re grabbing a bite on Wells Street, catching an exhibit in the Broadway Arts District, or bringing the kids to Science Central, you’re now part of an even stronger, more connected Downtown community…