Franke Park Master Plan

Franke Park Master Plan

Fishers, IN

In 1921, 80 acres of land surrounding Spy Run Creek were donated to the City of Fort Wayne by John B. Franke for use as a public park. Since that time, the beloved park has increased in size to 329 acres that today includes Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park Day Camp, ten miles of mountain biking trails, BMX and cyclocross facilities, and the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, ranked among the top zoos in the U.S. and the city’s largest draw for regional tourism. Facing a steady increase of visitors, Franke Park faces challenges with balancing ecology, recreational programming, and the built environment.

Client
Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation
Year
2019

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation engaged RATIO to lead a master planning effort for the park that will guide its evolution over the next 10-20 years. The plan will provide recommendations and identify opportunities for improving infrastructure to support the future growth programming elements, enhancing connections to surrounding neighborhoods, greenways and the downtown area, expanding bicycle and pedestrian circulation, and improving wayfinding and accessibility.

In keeping with the wishes of John Franke, the plan will seek to enhance, restore, and preserve the park’s natural woodland areas, waterways, and wetlands for the enjoyment of future generations of Fort Wayne residents and visitors.