A major new entrance to Franke Park on Goshen Road officially opened on Friday, offering visitors an upgraded access point along with significant improvements to the park’s facilities. The project, which includes a new bridge, paved multi-use trails, and enhanced bike and hiking paths, is part of a larger initiative to revitalize one of Fort Wayne’s most beloved outdoor spaces.
Major Improvements to the Park’s Infrastructure
The new entrance to Franke Park is designed to provide a more welcoming and accessible experience for parkgoers. A key feature of the upgrade is a tree-lined entrance, which gives a more scenic approach to the park. The addition of a new bridge over Spy Run Creek will allow for smoother access to the park’s extensive trails, which have also been improved to better serve both hikers and mountain bikers.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the project promises to enhance their experience significantly. The paved multi-use trail will offer a smoother, more accessible route for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. The upgrades to the mountain bike and hiking trails are also expected to draw more outdoor enthusiasts to the park, encouraging healthy activity and offering more opportunities for exploration.
Local Leaders Celebrate the Opening
Mayor Sharon Tucker spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of the new entrance and the broader improvements. “The new entrance into Franke Park is a welcoming and needed addition that will help make experiences more memorable and rewarding for residents and visitors,” said Tucker. She emphasized the unique value of Franke Park as a community resource, noting that the improvements would enhance the overall quality of life for Fort Wayne residents.
Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel also expressed his gratitude for the project’s support from city leaders and funders. “By connecting area residents to the improved mountain bike and hiking trails, and adding the improved flow for vehicles in the southwest corner of the park, we anticipate more park users, happier park users, and quite possibly healthier park users,” McDaniel said. The new entrance is expected to make visiting the park more convenient, and the additional amenities should draw more visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Part of the Larger Franke Park Renaissance
The new entrance marks the completion of the first phase of the Franke Park Renaissance, a long-term plan to enhance the park’s infrastructure and facilities. This ongoing project aims to modernize the park while preserving its natural charm, ensuring it remains a favorite destination for generations to come.
Along with the improvements to trails and infrastructure, the project also includes plans for other enhancements to park amenities, including expanded event spaces, recreational areas, and more. The opening of the new entrance is a key step in making Franke Park a more vibrant and accessible location for outdoor activities and community events.
