A long-awaited addition to Fort Wayne’s Harvester Neighborhood is finally here, and for residents who rely on public transit, it’s a game-changer. After years of planning and community effort, a new bus shelter now stands at 3615 New Haven Avenue, offering protection from the elements and a sign of progress for the area.
A Vision Born from Necessity
Margaret Machlan, president of the Harvester Neighborhood Association, first had the idea for the bus shelter three years ago. She remembers watching residents—young and old—waiting for their bus in the rain, snow, and freezing temperatures.
“I saw kids and others standing out in the elements in the rain and snow, waiting for the bus, and I just had a sense of empathy for them,” Machlan said.
That empathy turned into action. With support from local organizations, schools, and city leaders, the project slowly took shape.
A Community Effort
Building the shelter wasn’t just about providing a place to sit—it was about proving that neighborhoods can create positive change through collaboration.
- The Harvester Neighborhood Association led the initiative.
- Students from Fort Wayne Community Schools and East Allen County Schools contributed to the construction.
- Local leaders and organizations provided support to make the project a reality.
For Moises Orellana, a student involved in the project, the work had a personal meaning.
“My family depends on public transportation,” he said. “So, knowing I was helping build something that would benefit people like us made it even more special.”
Looking Ahead
Machlan hopes this project is just the beginning.
“This isn’t just about one bus shelter,” she said. “It’s about showing that small improvements can have a big impact. Hopefully, this inspires other neighborhoods to take on similar projects.”
The shelter now stands as a testament to what’s possible when a community comes together. For Harvester Neighborhood residents, it’s more than just a structure—it’s a symbol of progress, resilience, and care.
