Downtown Fort Wayne is speaking out over the proposed location of a new homeless services center after criticism from City Councilman Russ Jehl.

The planned 24/7 shelter would be located on East Washington Boulevard near The Rescue Mission and serve up to 150 people daily.

In a statement Friday, Downtown Fort Wayne said the city should slow the process and further evaluate the impact the shelter could have on downtown businesses and development.

Jehl and others worry the project could hurt years of public and private investment in the area.

Mayor Sharon Tucker says the city is focused on helping unhoused residents while minimizing impacts on surrounding neighborhoods.