Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker has outlined a major public safety initiative to address concerns from residents and business owners in the city’s downtown core. Announced during her first State of the City address, the new “Downtown Patrol District” aims to enhance law enforcement presence as the area undergoes significant growth.
A New Era of Downtown Safety
Downtown Fort Wayne is in the midst of a transformation. With projects like The North River Fieldhouse, The Landing Exchange, and The Eddy on Wells St. taking shape, the city is preparing for an influx of new residents. Many of these developments include housing units, meaning a rising population and greater demand for safety measures.
Tucker emphasized that traditional policing strategies need to evolve alongside the city’s growth. “Our city is growing, and so the century-old way we looked at policing needs to be changed and modified,” she stated.
Business Owners and Residents Voice Concerns
Local business owners and downtown residents have repeatedly expressed concerns about safety, particularly as foot traffic increases in the area. City officials have taken note.
“We have heard a lot of concerns from business owners and from residents that live here, that live downtown. And so, we wanted to be able to address those concerns,” Tucker explained.
City Councilman Geoff Paddock, who represents Fort Wayne’s 5th District, added that many community members are calling for more visible law enforcement. “We’ve heard from some folks who would like to see more of the officers downtown walking the beat, riding their bicycles,” he said.
How Will the Downtown Patrol Operate?
While the mayor has committed to increased law enforcement presence, specifics on the structure and execution of the new Downtown Patrol District remain unclear. Fort Wayne Police Chief Scott Caudill will play a key role in finalizing the plan in the coming months.
What’s known so far:
- Officers will be more visibly stationed downtown.
- A mix of foot and bicycle patrols is being considered.
- The initiative will be tailored to match the needs of businesses, residents, and visitors.
Chief Caudill confirmed that further details, including the number of officers assigned and their patrol schedules, will be released soon.
Public Safety at the Forefront
Tucker has made it clear that public safety remains a top priority for her administration. “Public safety continues to be a priority and is at the forefront of my administration,” she affirmed.
City officials are working closely with law enforcement to implement these changes effectively. As Fort Wayne’s downtown landscape evolves, city leaders believe a proactive approach to policing will be essential in maintaining a safe and vibrant environment.
