Fort Wayne residents will see a temporary change to traffic flow on Parnell Avenue beginning Thursday, Sept. 17. The street will operate as a southbound‑only corridor between East State Boulevard and Nettie Avenue while the city’s public works crews install a new concrete center median at the intersection of East State Boulevard and Parnell Avenue.
Construction details and timeline
The median project is part of a private development effort near East State Boulevard. Workers will be on site to pour and finish the concrete barrier, a step intended to improve safety and traffic management once the work is complete. The city expects the construction to proceed smoothly, weather permitting, and to restore the normal two‑way configuration by the end of the day on Wednesday, Sept. 23.
Impact on drivers
During the construction window, northbound vehicles will be prohibited from traveling on Parnell Avenue between East State Boulevard and Nettie Avenue. Motorists are encouraged to use nearby streets such as State Boulevard, Washington Street, or the parallel routes on Washington and Main to bypass the affected segment. The city advises drivers to allow additional travel time, especially during peak morning and evening commutes.
Why the median matters
City officials and the private developer behind the project say the median will help separate opposing traffic flows, reduce the likelihood of head‑on collisions, and provide a clearer visual cue for drivers. By creating a dedicated lane for each direction, the improvement aligns with Fort Wayne’s broader goal of enhancing road safety and supporting future growth in the surrounding commercial district.
Community response
Local business owners have expressed support for the project, noting that a well‑designed median can improve access to storefronts and create a more pedestrian‑friendly environment. Residents have been asked to remain patient and follow posted signage, which will be posted well in advance of the work.
Additional resources
For real‑time updates on the construction schedule, traffic detours, and any changes due to weather, drivers can visit the City of Fort Wayne’s official website or follow the city’s traffic alerts on social media. The Department of Public Works will also post temporary signage at the work zone to guide motorists safely through the area.
Overall, the temporary one‑way restriction is a short‑term inconvenience aimed at delivering a long‑term safety benefit for the community. By planning ahead and using alternate routes, drivers can minimize delays and help keep the project on track for a timely completion.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
