FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO) — Fort Wayne is proving that saving the past can pay off.

A new economic study shows historic preservation and heritage tourism are fueling jobs, boosting home values, and drawing millions in visitor spending.

Since 2001, nearly $340 million has been invested in historic rehab projects – creating hundreds of jobs every year.

And in 2024 alone, heritage tourists spent over $313 million in the city.