Council approves multiple sidewalk, trail and development measures; 98-unit senior housing abatement approved

Fort Wayne’s Common Council approved a slate of construction contracts, utility and procurement measures and two economic‑development designations during the committee session on July 22, 2025. Several items were passed with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes; council members flagged only a small number of items for further attention.

Key outcomes at a glance - St. Joe River Drive sidewalk (S250709): Council approved a $853,772 construction contract with Hipskin Concrete Corporation to build approximately 2,160 feet of sidewalk, five stormwater inlets and 28 new lights on the south side of Saint Joe River Drive (near Anthony to Parnell). The project is funded with LIT and will begin in August with anticipated completion by November. Vote: passed (6–0).

- Hannah Street Trail and Trailhead (S250705 and S250706): The council approved two contracts for the Hannah Street trail segment and a trailhead (work order numbers shown in ordinance text), the combined total and contractor details are in the ordinance packets. Vote: passed (6–0).

- City utilities on‑call and condition assessment agreements (S250703, S250704, S250707): The council approved multiple on‑call construction and inspection service agreements and an amendment for condition assessment services; the water/sewer/storm utilities will use these on‑call contracts for system work in 2025. Vote: passed (6–0).

- Pierce 100‑foot ladder truck for Fire Department (S250701): The council approved purchase of one Pierce Enforcer…