West Central is once again offering two popular programs: our Paint Program and our Tree Program. Both programs were offered for the first time last year and were a great success. This year’s guidelines and forms can be found under our “Programs” tab. Each program has a separate tab, so be sure to check out the programs and fill out an application if you would like to participate.
Recently the City created a video highlighting the 800-block of West Central and the efforts by the City, West Central residents, and the Belay Corporation to rehabilitate four long-abandoned and deteriorating houses located in the middle of the block. Two houses were renovated, but, unfortunately, two other houses were beyond restoration. This link will take you to the video. The video is 30 minutes in length and provides an excellent summary of the various forces that had to come together to accomplish this major project.
This past Wednesday, March 20th, City of Fort Wayne personnel toured 823 West Washington Boulevard and interviewed West Central president, Susan Smethers. The material will be part of a video highlighting City and neighborhood efforts to improve our neighborhoods and the often-abandoned areas located in those neighborhoods.
City personnel – including Don Orban of the Historic Preservation Commission (2nd from left) – met with West Central president, Susan Smethers (3rd from left), to tour 823 West Washington Boulevard and discuss the overall renovation of the 800-block of West Washington.
The West Washington renovation will truly be a jewel for West Central once it is completed. Two houses were rehabbed, but, unfortunately, two houses were deteriorated to the point that demolition was necessary. Two houses – similar in style and look – are rising from the two lots left by the demolition of the original homes.
Ric Zehr of the Belay Corporation, the investor and developer, and Kurt Stark of Preston Allen Homes, the construction company in charge of the work, aniticipate completion of the project within the next several weeks. The house at 825 West Washington – the first to be rehabbed – was sold last fall, and all signs point to a quick sale of the remaining three homes.
The good news keeps coming! The 800-block of West Washington is well on its way to renovation with 825 purchased, 823 undergoing renovation, and two new homes rising on the lots of 815 and 817. The Association purchased 1218 Fulton Street and located an investor who has renovated the house for occupancy.
Farther downtown, St. Francis purchased both the Scottish Rite and the Chamber of Commerce buildings, the Anthony Wayne Bank Building has been retooled into condos, the construction of the new Indiana Tech Law is well underway, and Harrison Square is open for business. And, now, add one more improvement to the list – the upcoming renovation of the historic Randall Building – also known locally as the Bonar Building- at the corner of South Harrison and Pearl Streets. The Randall Building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as an individual district in 1990.
Last year Real America Development of Indianapolis began the process of purchasing the Randall Building. The building hosts a first floor of commercial establishments, but the upper four floors have long been abandoned. Real America plans to renovate the building with approximately 44 apartments. Real America has now received notice that it will be awarded tax credits so that is may proceed with its plans.
Yet, another sign that West Central is on the move!
Thanks to Molly Gropp for a great video about our beautiful and historic neighborhood! If you have any questions or comments Molly can be reached at:
groppm@huntington.edu
That’s right, no more cutting down trees, no more wasting printer ink or gas getting to the post office. And no more trying to find that old checkbook buried somewhere under a pile on your desk. Now you can become a member of the West Central Neighborhood Association – and pay the dues – right here… ONLINE! Yes, this old and sometimes old-fashioned non-profit has finally arrived in the 21st century. Just head on over to our Membership Page and click the appropriate membership level. You’ll be able to pay by PayPal or credit card, then receive a receipt by email. Couldn’t get any easier.
So, for those of you who’ve been putting off joining or renewing because you threw out your printer or forgot where the post office is, you have no more excuses. Just a few quick clicks and it’s done! And then you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing your partnership and your money is helping us continue our ongoing efforts to make West Central the greatest neighborhood in the City!
Of course, if you still prefer writing checks, we don’t mind. Print out the membership form, complete it, and send it in with your check.
Thanks so much!
The good news keeps coming! In the past year, we have seen the 800-block of West Washington well on its way to renovation, the purchase of 1218 Fulton Street by the Association, the Scottish Rite purchased by St. Francis University, the renovation of the Anthony Wayne Bank Building into condos, the beginning of the construction of the new Indiana Tech Law, the upcoming completion of Harrison Square, and, now, add one more improvement to the list – the upcoming purchase of the Randall Building on South Harrison street.
Tentative plans are being made by RealAmerica Development of Indianapolis to purchase the building and create “Randall Lofts” on the upper four floors while maintaining retail on the first floor. Watch for upcoming developments on this exciting new project!
West Centralites don’t just mouth platitudes about walking. They do it! The Fort Wayne Journal Gazette recently contained an article about the “walkability” factor of our neighborhoods. West Central was No. 1 with a score of 72; something that probably doesn’t surprise any of us who live here. We can look outside any season of the year, and, odds are, we will see neighbors and residents walking their pets, strolling around taking in the magnificent architecture, or visiting with friends and neighbors.
As the weather warms, West Central comes alive with bikers, joggers, and walkers – and plenty of four-legged companions. Our neighborhood not only enjoys “walkability” kudos within its residential area but also in its proximity to downtown. We have access to many quality restaurants and gathering spots, historical buildings, houses of worship, well-kept parks, and a myriad of events – theatrical, sporting, musical, and educational – from which to choose.
As you scan the list of neighborhoods with their walkability scores, notice that it is those in our urban core that have the highest in ranking. Subdivisions just don’t cut it when it comes to amenities within walking distance. Just one more reason to make West Central and our urban core your destination of choice.
West Berry Street from Fulton street – circa 1910.
Welcome to the West Central Neighborhood Association website! We have tons of important information that we hope will keep you up-to-date on what is happening in our beautiful neighborhood. We are constantly adding more, so let us know if you don’t see something you’re looking for or if you have any questions!
Preservation Nation This Old House
