Demolition begins at former Pepsi facility in Fort Wayne
Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe Now
Demolition work began Tuesday at a former PepsiCo Inc. distribution facility in Fort Wayne, the next step toward the city’s vision of redeveloping the site as an economic catalyst along the riverfront.
Fort Wayne officials are reviewing development proposals for the seven-plus acre site at 1207. N. Harrison St., according to a news release from the city. The goal is to create a mixed-use center of activity that benefits adjacent neighborhoods and supports public investment in the riverfront while also drawing private investment.
“Riverfront development continues to be a shining star bringing residents and visitors alike to enjoy recreation, shopping, dining, employment, and more,” Mayor Tom Henry said in the news release. “I’m looking forward to what this important parcel of land will be able to do for our community and region.”
Inside INdiana Business reported in October that the city has received at least eight proposals to redevelop the site. One proposal, led by Carmel-based Domo Development Co., would extend beyond the seven-acre site to 60 acres and incorporate a 5,000-seat event venue, a 5,000-seat outdoor soccer stadium and additional athletic facilities, multigenerational housing and retail space. The proposed $1.5 billion mixed-use project would be one of the largest urban development projects in the Midwest.
The city’s news release did not identify any of the developers or specify their proposals.
Domo Development earlier told IIB that its project could get underway in about two and a half years and take about 10 years to complete.
The city bought the PepsiCo site for $4.5 million in May 2022. A request for qualifications was issued in August 2023 followed by a request for proposals to develop the site. The Fort Wayne City Council at the end of last year voted 8-0 to approve funding for the demolition work.
You can watch the news conference marking the beginning of demolition from our partners at WPTA-TV by clicking here.