Iconic GE Sign Coming Down in Fort Wayne
(photo courtesy of our partners at 21Alive)
Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowAn iconic sign in Fort Wayne is coming down due to recent acts of vandalism. General Electric Co. (NYSE: GE) says the GE sign atop a building on the company’s vacant campus is being dismantled and stored to avoid further deterioration and for safety reasons.
GE Spokesman Matt Conkrite says despite the company’s efforts to seal off the campus, people have climbed onto the building and vandalized the sign. The lights on the sign were shut off last year because of the incidents.
"We continue to work with the City of Fort Wayne to identify actionable solutions for the property that will benefit the Fort Wayne community and meet the needs of the local market," Conkrite said. "No final decisions have been made concerning the property. We’re confident we share a desire with the City and Mayor Henry to be open to ideas and suggestions from the community and will take them into consideration as we progress."
The city of Fort Wayne says it was aware of GE’s decision to move the sign and appreciates the company placing an emphasis on safety. Mayor Tom Henry says the city continues to have positive discussions with GE about the campus’ future.
"Everyone realizes this is an effort that’s going to take time," said Henry. "Collaboration will be key in moving forward to find an appropriate future use of the campus. We’re encouraged there’s open communication designed to find ways to make a meaningful difference for the community."
GE announced in 2014 it was closing the Fort Wayne facility. A group known as "Save Our Fort Wayne General Electric Campus" held a series of public forums in February to develop a vision for the future of the campus.