Category: Fort Wayne News

4 Features Arriving in New Homeless Shelter

Posted on September 15, 2025

Click Here to See Highlights from the Event

This August, our team stood alongside Vincent Village, Inc., project partners, and community representatives to break ground on a new homeless shelter.

“We are laying the foundation for brigher futures, stronger families. This shelter represents an $18M investment but we are just not breaking ground on a new shelter, we’re breaking ground on human potential.” – Rohli Booker, Director of Mission Advancement, Vincent Village, Inc. and Fort Wayne City Council Member

This project, which is part of a larger campaign to revitalize the southeast section of the city, was made possible through generous donations and an open network of support from the surrounding Fort Wayne community. It is a key turning point for the nonprofit organization, which has operated since 1989 with a mission to create pathways for families in need, facilitating a transition from a state of crisis to long-term stability.

Building New Opportunities

Planned by MartinRiley Architects and developed by Weigand Construction, the new transitional shelter will greatly expand the operational capacity of Vincent Village’s programming with features such as:

13 Bedrooms
Kitchen
Laundry Room
Multi-Use Youth Services Room

“Currently, our shelter’s 10 rooms. There’s only two bathrooms in the current shelter, so all the families share those bathrooms. In the new shelter, each room will have its own bathroom, building dignity and support.” – Rob Haworth, Executive Director, Vincent Village, Inc.

This facility will create a greater sense of ownership and privacy for families who are receiving care through the organization, providing spaces where they can recover and as they proactively take steps towards a new beginning. The project also involves demolition of some existing structures on Vincent Village propery, including the removal of the historic St. Hyacinth Church, which was the original home of Vincent Village 36 years ago.

A New Chapter

This event was more than groundbreaking, it was a milestone marking a new story of hope for families throughout the southeast region of Fort Wayne, Indiana. We are excited to work alongside Vincent Village and MartinRiley in helping bring the vision of this new shelter to life.

Bright Students Celebrate Latest EACS Development

Posted on September 15, 2025

See Moments from the Groundbreaking Event Here

The second-grade class at Southwick Elementary were excited to help kick off construction of their new and upcoming school facility, located on Paulding Road in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The project is one of three that Weigand Construction is managing for East Allen County Schools, alongside the new Lions Fieldhouse and the East Allen University/Paul Harding Junior High School campus renovation.

“The project represents a commitment to our students. It is a commitment to building a future for them and a place where they will learn, grow, and thrive in spaces that support their curiosity and creativity.” – Marilyn Hissong, Superintendent, East Allen County Schools

A Growing District

Designed by Garmann Miller, the new facility will bring much needed space to address the school’s burgeoning student population. Attendance increased by 8% over the last year alone, with more expected in the near future. With this in mind, the replacement building will have:

Pod Style Layout
Gymnasium
Double Sided Stage
Classrooms
Dining Area
Community Event Spaces

With some students currently being housed in the nearby Prince Chapman Academy, the completion of this project will be a welcome addition to the EACS roster, helping to manage the influx of young learners entering the district.

A Team Effort

While sharing her remarks during the event, Superintendent Marilyn Hissong noted that it takes collaboration and the involvement of the entire region to help such an undertaking as this one materialize.

“This school will stand as a symbol of what’s possible when a community comes together for its children.” – Marilyn Hissong, Superintendent, East Allen County Schools

We’re thankful to be part of the group delivering the new Southwick Elementary building, which is positioned to nurture future generations of students as they develop, discover, and grow.

Lions Fieldhouse Roaring to Life

Posted on June 10, 2025

Plunging shovels into piles of soft earth, students, school administrators, builders, architects, and members of the Leo community marked the beginning of construction for a new fieldhouse coming to campus in 2026. With construction managed by WCI and design led by Garmann Miller on behalf of East Allen County Schools, this addition is just the first of many projects on the timeline for the district this year, as they look to maintain, renovate, and expand their diverse learning environments for current students and those to come.

Student Athletics Hub

The 34,000 square foot building will support multiple sports-related programs with spaces facilitating various activities:

3 Basketball Courts
Batting Cages
Wrestling Training Rooms
Track
Mezzanine
New Roads and Parking Access
Concessions Building
Vestibule
Retractable Bleachers

Educational Excellence

These features in the new fieldhouse serve to strengthen Leo Junior Senior High School’s athletic programming across several different sports. With the added space, school teams will no longer have to share the same areas to practice, streamlining schedules and simplifying logistics for students and parents. On top of improved coordination, the addition will also create an impact reaching past its physical attributes.

“…The true power of this project is not in the square footage or the programming. It’s in what this facility will do for the students, the staff, and the broader East Allen community. Inside these walls, young athletes will cultivate more than just growth in their skill and their strength. They’ll build confidence, character, and community. They’ll forge relationships, learn resilience, and discover how to compete with integrity.” – Larry Weigand, CEO, Weigand Construction

The sight lines are also aimed at higher than just sports. For East Allen County Schools, it’s a promise to continue promoting environments where students thrive.

“This groundbreaking isn’t just about laying the foundation for a building; it’s about the opportunities it will afford. And it will stand as a testament to our collective commitment to excellence in academics, athletics, and arts.” – Marilyn Hissong, Superintendent, EACS

Weigand-Constructed Chapel Wins National Building Award

Posted on March 18, 2025

Christ Chapel at Hillsdale College, located in south-central Michigan, is gaining national recognition for its classical beauty and the craftsmanship behind its construction.

Built by Weigand Construction, the chapel was awarded Best Brick & Stone Project at the 2025 International Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers (BAC)Craft Awards. This honor places Christ Chapel at the forefront of masonry craftsmanship, highlighting the enduring skills of BAC partners. (Weigand is a BAC signatory contractor, certified in specialized masonry work such as grouting and reinforced masonry.)

Construction of the chapel took place between 2017 and 2019, making it the first religious building of its size to be completed in the United States in over 70 years. The chapel boasts a striking 70-foot facade that leads into a sanctuary accommodating 1,350 worshippers beneath a 64-foot painted barrel ceiling. Eight Doric limestone columns support the entrance portico, while the altar is framed with elegant marble Corinthian detailing. The structure is crowned by a 32-foot self-supporting masonry dome, the largest built in over 50 years.

A Crowning Achievement

“The recognition feels like winning the Super Bowl for construction masons,” says architect Duncan Stroik, who designed the chapel in a Neoclassical style inspired by Christopher Wren and early American churches. Stroik is a founding professor at Notre Dame’s classical architecture program and has over 35 years of experience in practicing and teaching sacred architecture.

With its primary design motif being Doric and enhanced with Renaissance details, Christ Chapel remains rooted in tradition. This choice reflects a deliberate homage to the enduring legacy and spiritual significance of Western architecture.

Strong Legacy in Skilled Craftmanship

Since 1986, the BAC Craft Awards have highlighted outstanding craftsmanship and union service, showcasing not only technical excellence but also the cultural impact of construction artistry.

Christ Chapel is now among the distinguished recipients of this award — a place where liturgical beauty meets brick and mortar and where modern construction revives classical inspiration. Its significance extends beyond aesthetics; it serves as a beloved community landmark. “The chapel elevates the spirit,” Stroik says. “It gives form to faith.”

Women Celebrated on WIC Week

Posted on March 13, 2025

Highlighting Women in the Industry

Since 1998, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has held a special week of events, highlighting the critical role that women play in both maintaining and pushing the construction industry forward. March 2^nd-6^th, known as WIC Week, is dedicated to recognizing the past, present, and future achievements of women, a worker group historically underrepresented in the construction world. WIC Week both celebrates progress while also continuing to lay the foundation to support the next generation of women aspiring to make their career in the industry.

The Tools to Succeed

NAWIC hosted a full week of online events, with industry experts sharing their unique experiences through educational seminars, panel discussions, and setting vision for the future.

“It’s been a significant opportunity for us to spotlight not only the accomplishments, but also the possibilities for women in the industry.” – Rita Brown, President Elect, NAWIC

Meet the Women of Weigand

We asked a few employees about their experiences as women in construction, why they chose this industry, and any advice they had for peers in the profession:

“Originally I went to school for business administration and landed in the construction industry,” says Tara Leto, a Construction Admin and Manager of WCI’s Award-Winning Employee Wellness Program. “I’ve stayed for 27-plus years…I’ve met some great people…I don’t ever get bored!”

For Chloe Hutchins, Weigand’s Senior BIM Coordinator, it was CAD classes in high school that piqued her interest, leading her to pursue a degree in Construction Management at Purdue University. She noted that emphasizing professional connections were key to her growth. “Any advice I would have for women in construction would just be to ask questions and then make those connections. Talk to people in the field; talk to people in the office; really get to know people. It really helps and goes a long way.”

Courtney Plumley, a Safety Coordinator, said that she enjoys the industry for the variety it offers, “I get a mix of being out here in the field and being in the office and every day is different.”

“Part of the reason why I got into construction is all the opportunity,” mentions Olivia Jablonski-Davies, a Project Engineer at Weigand. “There’s tons of stuff you can get into from project management [and] estimating…we’re always growing and expanding.”

Sami Miller, WCI’s IT Support Analyst, highlighted that composure in difficult circumstances is a fundamental part of personal and professional advancement, “My advice for women who want to get into the industry is to just be confident and assertive. It can be a tough industry, but knowing your worth and standing your ground will earn you the respect that you deserve.”

The women of Weigand operate and lead in a wide array of roles throughout the company. Ranging from Project Management, Preconstruction, and Safety to Technology, Accounting, Recruiting, Administration, and Business Development—they are driving innovation and carving a new path in the world of construction as we know it today.

U.S. Senator Speaks on Elex

Posted on January 20, 2025

The Next Phase

A new addition is on the way to the landmark Electric Works redevelopment. Project stakeholders, politicians, contractors, and the local community gathered to commemorate ongoing construction of the next stage of the EW Campus: The Elex. Bringing several important commodities to the region, the completed project includes:

296 Residential Units
89 Affordable Housing Units
Parking Garage
Private Courtyard
Fitness Center
Early Childhood Learning Center
Commercial and Retail Space

A Piece of the Past

Calling back to the campus’ former roots, the development is named after G.E.’s female employee group known as The Elex Club. The term “elex” is Latin for electric. First established in 1916, the collective operated as a philanthropic organization for many decades in order “to promote social and educational activities, to foster the spirit of friendly service, and to stand for the highest ideals of womanhood [Elex Club. (1998). Elex Club History, 1916-1998 (p. 3)].”

Going even further back, the group took its name from what used to be a local women’s basketball team. The players eventually became the founding members of the club itself. To celebrate this special era of local history, a special bouquet of pink roses was produced and placed in front of the podium during the commemoration.

A Win for the Community

89 total units are dedicated to affordable housing. 47 of them set aside for those over the age of 55. Another 20 are for those with developmental disabilities. This ensures the Elex will have the capacity to support people at all stages of life.

U.S. Senator Todd Young addresses ceremony guests.

“Housing costs are high, and across the country, communities are trying to figure out ways to revitalize downtowns and make housing more affordable…That’s why The Elex is a big win for Fort Wayne. The public-private partnerships that have made Electric Works a reality can serve as a model for communities looking to increase housing options and improve their quality of place.” – Todd Young, U.S. Senator

We look forward to expanding the Electric Works Campus with this new phase, bringing the vision of The Elex and a thriving community to life!

New Animal Shelter Homeward Bound

Posted on September 17, 2024

Sharon Bodenhafer Critter Center

Community members, Humane Fort Wayne staff, press, project partners, donors, and local officials gathered to watch the ribbon cutting for Humane Fort Wayne’s newest building, marking the official end of the construction phase and the opening of the facility. Together with donor Chuck Bodenhafer, Jessica Henry-Johnson, Humane Fort Wayne Executive Director, snipped the decorative blue ribbon, followed by a chorus of cheers from an energized crowd of supporters and animal lovers.

Built for All Paws

Sitting at 25,600 square feet, the new facility features:

Kennels with Open Air Access

Cat Colonies with Large Windows

Outdoor Play Areas

Walking Trail

Lobby

Community Education Center

Training Spaces

And More

With more space and resources provided by this new structure, the team at Humane Fort Wayne will not only have more room for pets on their adoption list but also an expanded list of service offerings for the community.

“The truth is this is going to help us unleash love on this community by way of helping homeless pets find forever homes and by providing spay/neuter services and wellness services for more than 30,000 animals in this community every year.” – Jessica Henry-Johnson, Executive Director, Humane Fort Wayne

Continuing the Legacy

For more than 65 years, Humane Fort Wayne has operated in Northeast Indiana, facilitating animal adoptions, educational resources, pet food pantries, assistance programming, and low-cost clinical services. We’re proud to be able to serve alongside as partners in this venture, bringing this vision, which is more than five years in the making, into the real world. We can’t wait to see how animals thrive in this facility built to connect them to their forever homes throughout the region.

“I’m forever grateful to the folks who built this building brick-by-brick, cinder block-by-cinder block. I truly felt as though the folks from Weigand wanted this facility for me as much as I wanted it for my team. The relationship I have and the respect I have for Larry Weigand and his crew is immeasurable. We even have a golden hammer here in honor of Tony Heckman our [superintendent] and Jon Becker our project manager because I really felt like for the last 14 months, we’ve been linked arms, and today they cut the ribbon with me in spirit because without them, none of this would have come to fruition, certainly not in the way that it has.” – Jessica Henry-Johnson, Executive Director, Humane Fort Wayne

Upcoming Music Project Name Revealed

Posted on September 17, 2024

A Song not yet Written

A sound of hope and anticipation echoed through many in the Purdue Fort Wayne community as they witnessed the official construction kickoff for their new music center addition. The Surack-Sweetwater Music Industry Building, whose name was unveiled at the ceremony, is the fulfillment of a vision first set in 2018 when the School of Music first opened at PFW.

A Best-in-Class Facility

The Surack-Sweetwater Music Industry Building will act as an addition to the Rhinehart Music Center, providing more studio, rehearsal, and classroom space with a focus on recording, mixing, and mastering music. The $25M, 26,000 square foot building will have:

Two Studios

Rehearsal Rooms

Storage Spaces

Equipment Checkout

Editing Rooms

Classrooms

Office and Conference Space

Tracking Room

Isolation Rooms

And More

Sporting a modern, sleek design that still captures the overall look and feel of PFW’s larger campus, students will have access to industry-level technology, helping fine tune their sound as they learn to produce professional audio.

Made Possible Through Donors

This project moved forward through the coordinated efforts of contributors such as the Auer Foundation and the Surack Family, as well as many private donors. The Indiana General Assembly also played a role in securing funding by apportioning their budget to offset a large portion of the construction cost.

Construction Phase Now Online

We are excited to begin building this incredible new addition to the PFW Music Center. We’re humbled to have the opportunity to once again partner with PFW and Design Collaborative on this amazing project for the benefit of students, faculty, and the music industry in Fort Wayne as a whole. Here’s to building landmarks that impact the lives and communities we serve!

Fine Arts School Now Open

Posted on September 17, 2024

Excitement from many months of anticipation was felt as the Canterbury Community came together to officially open its new Fine Arts Center. Joined by the project team, the board of trustees, and key project donors, the group cut the ribbon, highlighting the final milestone since construction began in May of 2023.

“The campus has transformed dramatically with the Fine Arts Center now serving as a welcoming front door to the High School Campus.” – Larry Weigand, CEO, Weigand Construction

Designed for the Arts

Developed as the central hub for Canterbury’s Academy of the Arts, the new, 18,000 square foot facility has several specialized offerings for students such as:

A Gallery

2D Art Studio

3D Art Studio

Blackbox Theatre

Theatre Dressing Rooms

Music Classroom

Choral Room

Practice Rooms

Recording and Podcasting Studios

Media Lab

And More!

These features allow for a diverse range of artistic disciplines for students to discover, explore, and hone throughout their learning journeys. Not only that, but access to this facility will be available for students in every grade, allowing them to foster creativity at all stages of their education.

More Lasting than Bronze

This tremendous effort strengthening Canterbury’s educational experience resulted in a structure set to make an impact on every student passing through its doors.

“In the building that stands behind us, our students, guided by their incredible teachers, will produce art that will last a lifetime. We could not be more thankful to the Surack and James families, and to all of our donors for your support. You have, in the words of Horace, helped us to construct ‘a monument more lasting than bronze.’” – David Jackson, Head of School, Canterbury School

We cannot wait to see how students’ creativity flourishes through the programs at the Canterbury Fine Arts Center in the years to come!

Explore Key Features and Visuals of the Canterbury School Fine Arts Center in our Education Portfolio

The Intern to Employee Pipeline

Posted on June 25, 2024

An Excerpt from our Q2 Newsletter

My name is Alexis Gregory, and I’m a Workforce Development Administrator here at Weigand Construction!

How it All Began

The last time you heard from me, I was a first-year intern beginning my career in Weigand’s Marketing Department during the summer of 2023. Throughout that time, I visited numerous jobsites, interacted with superintendents and field professionals, got firsthand experience seeing amazing projects being built, did press coverage for events like groundbreakings, and much more.

Back to School

As the summer ended, I returned to college for one final semester before graduation. My internship continued, where I transitioned to WCI’s HR Department. From organizing career fairs to poring over job descriptions, I gained key insights into HR’s operations. Working on company event preparations and content creation also expanded my skill set. Despite numerous challenges, I embraced the opportunity to learn and grow.

On the Team

This January, I accepted a full-time position, combining aspects of my internship with new responsibilities. I now have the pleasure of attending career fairs, aiding in recruiting future interns and full-time employees, while also creating new resources for training and development. It’s been a fulfilling journey, marked by lessons learned and new experiences. I’m excited to see the internship program continue expanding, with 26 interns set to join us this summer—an even bigger class from the previous year. These interns represent various departments across our entire company, and I look forward to seeing how they impact Weigand Construction’s future. I’m thrilled to play a role in their development as they shape the company’s success!

Alexis Gregory

Workforce Development Administrator