INDIANAPOLIS (April 16, 2020) — This evening, the Public Works Committee of the City-County Council voted in support of Proposal 142, new ordinance language that will advance plans to repair and improve the infrastructure of 38th Street. The Purple Line project, planned to go out to bid in early 2021, is projected to dedicate $95 million, more than half of its $155 million project budget to infrastructure along the 15.2-mile-long route.
Through the Purple Line project, IndyGo, the City of Indianapolis, and federal partners will transform East 38th Street. These infrastructure improvements include new pavement, adding or repairing 9.5 miles of sidewalk, installing a new three-mile-long multi-use path for pedestrians and bicyclists along the north side of 38th Street, connecting to the Fall Creek Greenway. In addition, the project will bring new traffic signals and 355 ADA-compliant curb ramps.
IndyGo is working closely with the City of Indianapolis Department of Public Works and local utility providers on drainage issues in the area. The Purple Line has presented an opportunity to coordinate amongst partners and deliver a drainage solution superior to what could have been achieved by any one entity on its own. Details are being finalized on the design and cost-sharing of a new separated storm sewer facility that will provide water quality benefits for decades to come.
“IndyGo is pleased to be able to leverage the Purple Line project as an avenue for delivering valuable infrastructure to the community,” said Inez Evans, President and CEO of IndyGo. “I’d like to thank our partner organizations, board members, elected officials, and neighbors for their support of a project that will significantly improve the quality of transit service and the supporting infrastructure.”
The ordinance changes approved by the committee tonight allow for new bus-only lanes and required turn restrictions for safety. With approval from the full City-County Council, IndyGo can finalize the funding process for the Purple Line. IndyGo expects the Purple Line project to go out to bid in early 2021, with the line opening for revenue service in 2023. More information about the project can be found at https://www.indygo.net/purple-line/.
