Fort Wayne City Council Approves Downtown Public Restroom03/12/2025Bringing a public restroom known as a Portland Loo to downtown Fort Wayne was approved by City Council. The restroom received some concern from Councilman Paul Ensley over its $280,000 cost as well as its public safety. In response, the Mayor’s Office issued this statement:"We understand that cost is an important factor when considering public infrastructure projects, and we’re encouraged to see our office work together with the Community Development Division and City Council to approve the purchase of one Portland Loo unit. Investing in our downtown is an investment in our local economy. A family-friendly environment encourages more people to visit, shop and dine, which in turn generates revenue for local businesses and the city. Providing well-maintained public amenities is a key part of making our downtown a destination where families and visitors feel comfortable spending time. Permanent public restrooms provide long-term benefits, including improved cleanliness, accessibility, and durability. They are designed to better serve residents and visitors, ensuring a more sanitary and sustainable option for the community. Additionally, permanent facilities can be maintained more effectively and are often more welcoming for families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.Balancing the need for public restrooms downtown with concerns about criminal activity, maintenance costs, and public safety is no different than managing other public amenities. It’s the city’s responsibility to provide clean and sanitary facilities for downtown workers, shoppers, and entertainment-goers. To address these concerns, we’ll partner with Downtown Fort Wayne to ensure the restroom is well-maintained and regularly cleaned. We’ll also work closely with the police department to monitor the area around the units and maintain safety. Additionally, the Portland Loo is specifically designed to deter criminal activity, making them a practical and secure solution for our downtown area."