FORT WAYNE, Ind (WOWO):  This morning, Mayor Tom Henry and other community leaders celebrated the completion of the Auburn Road transportation project at a ribbon cutting ceremony.

“As this area has grown it has become more difficult for motor vehicles – and it has been nearly impossible for pedestrians to walk to Northrop High School, Shawnee Middle School and Holland Elementary.  I’m glad we can make this investment into our future,” said Mayor Henry. “These improvements strengthen neighborhoods in the area by making our transportation system safer for cars, pedestrians and bicyclists. These are critical long-lasting infrastructure improvements that will make our community vibrant for years to come.”

The project improves Auburn Road for vehicles, bicyclists, joggers and walkers.   It offers important, safer, connectivity for the Auburn Farms and Concordia Gardens neighborhood students to walk to Shawnee, Northrop and Holland. It also connects pedestrians in eight neighborhoods along Cook Road.

“This intersection has been plagued by congestion and unsafe conditions for many years.  With this new design traffic will flow more smoothly and safely in this very busy area” said City Engineer Shan Gunawardena.

Funding for the $2.9 million project came primarily from the Indiana Department of Transportation.