Downtown Improvement District's contract with Allen County is increasing by 50%, keeping in step with the district's 42% geographic expansion, which is expected to go into effect in January.

Allen County commissioners approved a $75,000 contract Friday, renewing a business relationship that cost taxpayers $50,000 last year.

The district was established in 1995 to support business and economic development by partnering with public, private and nonprofit organizations. The city of Fort Wayne's contract with the organization is $250,000 for this year.

The area now designated as Downtown Fort Wayne is 468 acres. The expansion approved this summer when downtown property owners voted to reauthorize the district would increase it by 42% to 667 acres. The expansion includes the Wells Street and

See Full Page