“We believe it will become a vibrant regional destination that celebrates our rich railroad heritage and become an important economic driver for our City.”

City of Fort Wayne

“Headwaters Junction offers the 'wow' factor that's needed in riverfront's next phases and is likely to serve as an economic engine every bit as mighty as the vintage steam locomotive that will serve as its centerpiece.”

The Journal GazetteLocal newspaper

GRASSROOTS SUPPORT

Headwaters Junction is a home-grown community development plan with the backing of regional residents, community officials, civic organizations, and business owners of all ages, types and backgrounds.

It was one of the top three ideas voted for in Legacy Fort Wayne by area residents, endorsed by the Mayor’s Legacy Champion Team for Riverfront Development, and has been credited for renewing interest in North River Now, a redevelopment plan for 30-acres of undeveloped property near downtown that were part of the original 220-acre Headwaters Park Plan.

Legacy Fort Wayne documents listed Headwaters Junction as the only project that was “supported by [community] plans, had a high level of community support, and had catalytic potential.” In addition, Headwaters Junction is responsible for creating the “bucket” of Riverfront Development funding in the Legacy Fort Wayne process.

ENDORSEMENTS

  • City of Fort Wayne
  • Fort Wayne Community Foundation
  • Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership
  • Greater Fort Wayne
  • Schust Foundation
  • Riverfront Development Champion Team, Legacy Fort Wayne
  • Wells Street Historic Corridor and Business Association
  • Fort Wayne Trails
  • Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership
  • Friends of the Rivers
  • SWA Group
  • The Journal Gazette
  • Friends of the Parks
  • Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association
  • Nebraska Neighborhood Association
  • Northside Neighborhood Association
  • Northwest Area Partnership

WORDS OF SUPPORT

“Northeast Indiana might finally have an attraction as iconic as San Antonio’s River Walk and as family-friendly as a water park. Best of all, it could have an attraction unique to the region and true to northeast Indiana’s rich history.”

The Journal GazetteLocal newspaper

“Headwaters Junction would be a catalyst for the riverfront and activate the entire area. People come from all around the world to experience the city's historic trains and now they’ll able to do it along the riverfront.”

Todd Meyer, Director of Planning and Urban Design for SWA Group

“The best proposal that we have seen for North River and one that will enhance the area's historic character, create exciting activities, and provide a safe, attractive destination. I would love to hear a steam whistle echoing through my neighborhood!”

Gretchen E. JohnsonPresident, Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association

“We believe Headwaters Junction would make an incredible venue, encouraging tourism, economic development, and civic pride. It is the best development proposal we have seen.”

Judi WirePresident, Wells Corridor Business Association

“Headwaters Junction would be a nod to Fort Wayne's train history and showcase a unique, authentic asset...That's what visitors want in their tourism experiences: an interactive, dynamic experience."”

Visit Fort WayneConvention and Visitors Bureau

“Because of the dynamic nature of Headwaters Junction, it is an attraction that can be visited time and time again. We so firmly believe in this project and area that we have recently purchased the old Jack and Johnny’s building at 1137 Wells Street.”

Glenn EllenbergerPurple Mountain Cheesecakes

“Headwaters Junction has great potential to drive tourism to our area because it is such a unique attraction. I love the concept and how it can tell a piece of Fort Wayne's history in a modern and unique way. I hope Headwaters Junction will be our neighbor in the near future.”

Cara HallFort Wayne Outfitters and Bike Depot

“Without a doubt the impact that this project will have on not only the Nebraska Neighborhood, but our entire community as a whole. We truly see this as an opportunity to make Fort Wayne a destination city.”

Chris ShattoPresident, Nebraska Neighborhood Association

“The Headwaters Junction proposal proved to be big, bold, and transformational. Incorporating this feature within a mixed-use development should not be overlooked when developing a vision for our riverfont and North River.”

Legacy Fort WayneRiverfront Champion Team

“Headwaters Junction would bring to life our priceless, local treasures and locate them for all to see and experience. With Headwaters Junction, the city of Fort Wayne will be able to offer its residents and visitors a unique glimpse into the past but with a decidedly cool, modern approach to experiencing our heritage.”

Chris DoddsPine Hill Country Day School

“Headwaters Junction is an elegant and obvious addition to Headwaters Park. It honors the the city’s railroad legacy and adds diversity to the park’s appeal.”

Eric KuhneHeadwaters Park architect, CivicArts

“Headwaters Junction would be a unique attraction that families, historians and train lovers would all like to visit. The economic dollars it would bring to our town would be significant.”

Don HallOwner, Don Hall's Restaraunts

“It's wild & bold, just the way we like it.”

Matt KelleyOwner, One Lucky Guitar, Inc

“One of the most exciting and progressive railway heritage projects on the continent.”

John HankeyChairman, Railway Heritage Initiative

“We see many projects nationwide, but few with as much promise as Headwaters Junction. The potential it has to become a catalyst for tourism, an engine for economic development, and a spark for the overall livability of Fort Wayne is enormous.”

Jim WrinnEditor, TRAINS Magazine