(Ottawa, ON Canada.) – The International Downtown Association (IDA) today honored the City of Fort Wayne and Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) with a Merit Award for the IPFW Sculpture with PurposeTM project. During the IDA's annual conference in Ottawa, Ontario, the IPFW Sculpture with Purpose effort was recognized for its contribution to beautifying downtown Fort Wayne, making art more accessible and promoting bicycling.
IPFW Sculpture with Purpose won in the category of Public Space. This category recognizes capital improvements that enhance the urban design, physical function or economic viability of downtown and the community.
"IPFW's Sculpture with Purpose truly deserves this international recognition," said Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry. "The sculptural bike racks are something generations of Fort Wayne residents will appreciate and enjoy."
IPFW Sculpture with Purpose was initiated to celebrate IPFW's 50th anniversary and includes the installation of 50 sculptural bike racks throughout downtown and on the IPFW campus. Through innovative designs specifically crafted to accommodate bicycle parking, Sculpture with Purpose encourages the benefits of cycling while enriching the streets with art for everyone to enjoy.
"IPFW Sculpture with Purpose demonstrates the lasting connection between our campus, our city, and the whole northeast Indiana community," said IPFW Chancellor Vicky Carwein. "We are honored and pleased that the project received this award."
The Washington, D.C.-based International Downtown Association is a champion for vital and livable urban centers and strives to inform, influence and inspire downtown leaders and advocates. With 500 members and thousands of friends, IDA is a guiding force in creating healthy and dynamic centers that anchor the well-being of towns, cities, and regions.