The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) has revealed plans for major works on the interstate highway system, with a reconstruction of the I-65/I-70 interchange in downtown Indianapolis.
The entire North Split interchange will be completely reconstructed, INDOT said in a Sept. 18 presentation. Officials said the interchange was built 50 years ago and is “nearing the end of its useful life.” The North Split interchange accommodates approximately 170,000 vehicles daily and is operating at full capacity. The agency said the North Split does not meet current design standards.
INDOT says it plans to select a contractor in 2019, with construction to start between late 2019 and 2021.
The expansive project will repair or replace 32 bridges and address deteriorating pavement that has required extensive repairs and patching in the last few years. The current North Split also includes several lane change configurations that INDOT hopes to simplify.
An environmental analysis of the project will be undertaken to gauge the impact on homes, businesses and the environment. INDOT says the project is part of Gov. Eric Holcomb’s “Next Level Roads” initiative and is fully funded.
