Riverfront Fort Wayne is an initiative that envisions a revitalized downtown riverfront area that is a regional destination offering opportunities to experience nature, recreation, shopping, dining and entertainment in a whole new way. We led the community outreach efforts that resulted in the Riverfront Fort Wayne action plan – a plan that was developed through a process that included extensive community input. The resulting vision for the riverfront plan offers something for everyone, from natural wetlands that allows you to reconnect with nature, to an activity park that encourages people of any age to play, to a promenade that welcomes you to stroll and enjoy shopping and dining along the river. These areas of interest are strengthened by improved pedestrian, trail and vehicular connections from nearby neighborhoods and the downtown which will ensure an ease of accessibility to the riverfront for residents and visitors alike.

PROJECT TASKS

• Assisted multi-disciplinary team with concept plans for redevelopment of Fort Wayne’s Riverfront
• Developed stakeholder communication matrix and delivered associated key messages to target audiences
• Implemented diverse public input mechanisms, including programing and content for Envision Center public showroom
• Created unique public engagement events including boat tours and river walks
• Facilitated large-scale public meetings and open houses
• Analyzed public input and provided guidance to the design team

The success of the Riverfront Fort Wayne study is due in part to the true teamwork we experienced with Empower Results. Jill’s enthusiasm and dedication for our project and innovative communication techniques contributed to a quantity and quality of public input beyond our expectations!

Pam H.
Fort Wayne