In her first State of the City Address, Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker highlighted the city’s progress and outlined her administration’s priorities under the theme “Forging New Footprints Together.” She emphasized key initiatives in public safety, neighborhood investment, housing, economic development, and quality-of-life improvements.
Mayor Tucker announced that the Fort Wayne Police Department will have staffing for 510 officers and will create a dedicated downtown patrol district. A new citizens academy will be implemented to help strengthen community engagement with law enforcement. The Fort Wayne Fire Department will reach a record staffing level of over 370 firefighters, break ground on a new Fire Station 5 in Waynedale, and expand fire education programs. The city will also continue its partnership with the Three Rivers Ambulance Authority to ensure high-quality emergency medical services.
Investments in neighborhood infrastructure will total nearly $42 million in 2025, supporting improvements to streets, sidewalks, alleys, curbs, bridges, and trails. Since 2014, Fort Wayne has dedicated over $346 million to enhancing neighborhoods citywide. In addition, City Utilities is advancing sustainability efforts through projects such as the Microgrid and Deep Rock Tunnel, ensuring responsible environmental stewardship and long-term resilience.
The city’s commitment to economic development remains strong, with 15 projects in 2024 generating 813 new jobs, retaining nearly 2,800 jobs, and attracting over $2.5 billion in private investment. Major downtown revitalization projects in 2025 include the Treeline District, a former Pepsi warehouse site redevelopment featuring new park spaces, apartments, retail, and a public parking garage. Other projects, such as The Eddy and The Landing Exchange, will further expand housing and commercial opportunities with a focus on affordability.
Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.
At a time when our rights, freedoms, and futures are under threat, Democratic Mayors are showing the nation what real leadership looks like.
