Work begins on grocery store in Fort Wayne food desert
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Officials in Fort Wayne broke ground Thursday on a full-service grocery store on the city’s southeast side. Mayor Tom Henry’s office said the Pontiac Street Market, which is being developed in partnership with Parkview Regional Medical Center and Affiliates, will serve an area identified as a food desert.
The city said the full-serve market will provide healthy and affordable food options, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, and baked goods, and will also feature prepared foods, a sandwich counter and grocery pickup.
Staff from the city’s Community Development department and store operator Sodexo, which is also Parkview’s food service provider, plan to meet with neighborhood and community organization representatives over the next few months to gather input on the specific types of products that should be offered at the store.
“It’s encouraging to see how much progress we’ve made to bring meaningful quality of life opportunities to southeast Fort Wayne. We still have work to do, but we’re on the right track,” Mayor Henry said in written remarks. “This public-private partnership with Parkview will enhance the well-being of residents and neighborhoods.”
The city has approved $3.4 million for the upfront construction costs, $1.4 million of which will be reimbursed by Parkview over a five-year period. Parkview has also committed the upfront operating capital for the store to ensure it remains fully stocked and staffed.
“Parkview understands that access to high-quality, healthy food is foundational for health,” said Dr. Sarah GiaQuinta, senior vice president of community health and equity for the health system. “By overcoming barriers to access and cultivating skills for preparing life-sustaining food, this partnership will help pave the way to a healthier community.”
The Pontiac Street Market is set to open this fall.