Fort Wayne prides itself on being a caring and giving city. We’re a place where people matter, and we want the best for every resident who calls Fort Wayne home. One way we follow through on our commitments is by proactively demonstrating engagement, innovation, and performance.
Mayor Tom Henry recently provided a tremendous example of a city at work by leading a celebration ceremony to mark the beginning of construction on a full-service grocery store in southeast Fort Wayne at 918 E. Pontiac St. The City Administration and Parkview Regional Medical Center and Affiliates have joined together as community partners on this project.
The Pontiac Street Market will provide healthy, affordable food options in an area that’s currently defined as a food desert. The grocery store comes after being identified as a vital need through several community Southeast Strategy Update meetings.
The full-service market will provide:
- Fresh produce
- Meats
- Dairy
- Prepared foods
- Baked goods
- Sandwich counter
- Grocery pickup
Community Development staff, in collaboration with the store operator, Sodexo (Parkview’s food service provider), will be meeting with representatives from nearby and surrounding neighborhoods and other community organizations over the next couple of months to get input on the types of products and services the store should offer. Additionally, there will be an Advisory Committee made up of community representatives who will provide input and guidance to the grocery’s Board of Directors.
The Pontiac Street Market received approvals from the Redevelopment Commission and City Council to invest $3.4 million on the upfront construction costs. The funding includes $2 million in federal funds, $700,000 from Local Income Tax (LIT), and $700,000 from the Redevelopment Capital Fund. The Capital Fund and LIT funds will be reimbursed by Parkview over a 5-year period. Parkview will also provide the upfront operating capital, which will ensure that the grocery remains fully stocked and staffed.
The Redevelopment Commission will manage construction through Hagerman Group, which was selected through a competitive RFP process. Hagerman Group will be donating a portion of their construction services in support of this project.
Grand opening of the Pontiac Street Market is expected this fall.
It’s encouraging to see how much progress we’ve made to bring meaningful quality of life opportunities to southeast Fort Wayne. We still have work to do, but we’re on the right track. This public-private partnership will enhance the well-being of residents and neighborhoods. Collectively, our community has an unwavering determination to make a positive and lasting difference in the southeast quadrant.