Ideas to overhaul Indianapolis highways and how you can weigh in

The latest results from an ongoing Indianapolis interstate study are now available and the public is once again invited to add feedback. The ProPEL Indy study is a long-range transportation planning project that aims to identify all the areas where interstate improvements are needed.

INDOT leads the study that uses federal funds to examine key sections of I-65 and I-70 in the heart of Indianapolis. INDOT Strategic Communications Director INDOT Natalie Garrett said the new report is an extensive look at the information so far.

“This report really dialed down to some specific locations on I-65 and I-70, pinning some potential improvements and alternatives to those different locations,” Garrett said.

Areas being examined include bridge and pavement conditions, road safety issues and multi-modal connections around the interstates. Garrett said the latest report is a comprehensive look at the needs of the interstates so far.

“We've looked at things such as the age of infrastructure, safety impacts, environmental impacts of these specific alternatives, as well as the planning level cost analysis,” she said.

The overhaul of the interstates inside the I-465 loop could provide opportunities for new housing, business and greenspace, especially near the downtown core. The study also highlights options including a recessed highway that could improve safety and economic opportunity.

Since the vision study was launched in 2023 the community has been invited along at every stage. The report states more than 1,600 public comments have been submitted so far.

“Public feedback has been crucial to the success of the study, learning how the interstates can be improved for better use to make them safer for those that use them each and every day,” Garrett said.

INDOT will host community conversations and the comment period is open through October 5th.

The north split is exempt from the study as construction on that stretch of road was completed in 2023. Most of the current system was built about 50 years ago and resulted in highways cutting through historic neighborhoods and the displacement of communities.

The ProPEL Indy study will inform the next 20 years of construction inside the I-465 loop.

Contact WFYI Managing City Editor Jill Sheridan at jsheridan@wfyi.org.