Key infrastructure projects receive federal funding

Significant federal money has been awarded to improve Indianapolis infrastructure in the coming years. 

More than $17 million in federal funding is allocated to eight projects in Indianapolis.  The annual awards are decided by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization and will reach roadways, trails and bridges. 

One large project is the complete reconstruction of Madison Avenue on the Old Southside.  Department of Public Works Director Dan Parker said the new roadway will be safer and better connected.

“We will have a reconstructed road, we will have a road diet and we’ll have a trail that connects the Lilly campus, all the way down to Manual High School and the future Pleasant Run Trail,” Parker said.

Trail expansions are also planned on the westside with the first phase of the Eagle Creek Greenway. The rest of the funding will be used on six bridges. 

About 80 percent of project costs will be covered by this funding.

District 6 City-County Councilor Crista Carlino (D) said large infusions of federal money are helping to shape the city more equitably.

“And we can actually put forth efforts in areas that we never have been able to before, and we’re really able to realize and see some of the investments in parts of the community that have been long ignored,” Carlino said.

Indianapolis was one of 15 communities and agencies in the region selected to receive federal funds.  Projects will be completed in 2024 and 2025.