The lead off

• Fort Wayne announces multiple cooling stations for residents during summer heat
• Locations include libraries, transit stations, and community service centers
• Stations open through September 1 with varying hours and meal services

FORT WAYNE, IND. (WOWO) The City of Fort Wayne has announced a network of cooling stations across the community for residents seeking relief from the summer heat.

Locations and hours

The Office of Housing and Neighborhood Services and the Fort Wayne Area Planning Council on Homelessness identified several sites now serving as cooling stations, open through September 1:

• Allen County Public Library Main Branch, 900 Library Plaza: Monday–Thursday 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Friday–Saturday 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sunday noon–5 p.m. Closed July 4.
• Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St.: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sunday noon–4 p.m.
• Citilink Central Station, 121 W. Baker St.: Ride one full trip on a route with fare purchase. Monday–Friday 5:25 a.m.–9:45 p.m.; Saturday 7:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. Closed July 4.
• Inasmuch Ministry, 930 Broadway: Monday–Thursday 7:30 a.m.–noon; Monday evening 4–7 p.m.; Tuesday–Friday 4–7 p.m. when temperatures reach 90 degrees or higher.
• The Rescue Mission, 404 E. Washington Blvd.: Open seven days a week 7 a.m.–6 p.m. with meals at 7 a.m., noon, and 5 p.m.
• The Salvation Army, 2901 N. Clinton St.: Monday–Friday 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Closed July 4.

Additional partnerships

City officials are seeking additional partners, particularly for evening hours, to serve as cooling stations. Agencies or businesses interested in participating are encouraged to call 311 and ask for Amanda Fall, or email ohns@cityoffortwayne.org for more information.

Residents may also find full details about all cooling stations online at: https://engage.cityoffortwayne.org/2026-city-fort-wayne-cooling-stations.

The takeaway

Cooling stations open across Fort Wayne

Public and community facilities, including libraries, transit centers, and service organizations, are available for residents seeking relief from heat this summer.

Locations and services vary

Some sites provide air-conditioned space only, while others, like The Rescue Mission, offer meals alongside cooling areas. Hours vary by location and may adjust depending on temperature conditions.

City seeks additional partners

Fort Wayne city officials continue to recruit businesses and agencies to expand cooling station availability, particularly during evening hours, to help residents stay safe during periods of extreme heat.