More money planned for Indianapolis roads

Indianapolis roadways will get an extra infusion of money through a new proposal.  The additional funding will allow the Department of Public Works to address some of the worst roads in Marion County. 

The plan provides $10 million for immediate construction and $3 million for future projects. The money comes from the state distribution of County Option Income Tax.  DPW Director Dan Parker said the improvements are targeted.

“We got council feedback from each of the 25 and then we really tried to zero in on those major thoroughfares where our crews had to go back repeatedly this spring,” Parker said.

These are roadways that would otherwise be left out of construction plans. Every district will receive funds for repairs.

Parker said the supplemental funding will help resolve longtime problems.

“The Mayor made the decision to invest this in roads because it needs it, they need it,” Parker said.

The money is on top of DPW’s annual budget of $270 million. 

The future planning funds will target projects along residential streets by preparing designs for full street reconstruction.

A City-County Council committee will discuss the measure June 16.

Contact WFYI city government and policy reporter Jill Sheridan at jsheridan@wfyi.org. Follow on Twitter: @JillASheridan.