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INDIANAPOLIS (July 31, 2019) – IndyGo today released the final emergency operations plan for the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit line. The plan includes new protocols to allow emergency personnel complete access to neighborhoods and residents after the Red Line begins operation on September 1.
The plan was developed in collaboration with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), Indianapolis Fire Department (IFD) and Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services (IEMS). IndyGo worked closely with IMPD, IFD and IEMS for a year to identify public safety needs, potential traffic scenarios and best practices for public safety after Red Line operations begin.
“We very much appreciate the time, resources and collaboration offered by IMPD, IFD and IEMS,” said Mike Terry, IndyGo president and CEO. “Successful operation of the Red Line requires cooperation, proactive communication and an understanding that everyone is trying to do the best possible job they can for Indianapolis. Having a definitive operations plan for public safety, with input and approval by each of these agencies, is critically important.”
This summer, IMPD, IFD, and IEMS representatives gathered for an in-depth review of the new battery-electric vehicles. This is standard procedure for IndyGo when new vehicles are incorporated into its fleet. IndyGo staff provided a presentation and answered questions during the review process. In addition, public safety and IndyGo personnel toured on the new vehicle to a center-platform station at the University of Indianapolis to see operations in practice and review various safety features.
“The Indianapolis Fire Department has worked closely with IndyGo to develop a protocol for interaction with rapid transit buses and fire department apparatus on emergency calls,” said IFD Deputy Chief of Operations Joe Krebsbach. “IndyGo has been open to suggestions and worked collaboratively with IFD to develop a clear understanding of what is expected from each. We will continue to closely monitor and make recommendations as needed.”
“This process continues the positive working relationship between IMPD and IndyGo. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of both first responders and Indianapolis residents as the Red Line begins operation,” said IMPD Homeland Security Major Brian Mahone.
“IEMS responds to more than 115,000 calls to 911 for medical help annually across all of Marion County, which includes the Red Line corridor,” said IEMS Chief Dan O’Donnell, M.D. “We will continue to work with IndyGo to make sure our EMTs and paramedics are able to do their jobs properly and safely, with as little obstruction as possible.”
For more information and to watch video animations showing how vehicles will interact with the Red Line vehicles and new lane markings, visit www.IndyGoRed.com/RoadRules.
