Weather permitting, construction contractors plan to shift southbound Interstate 65 traffic lanes across the median tonight as part of the $19.6 million project rebuilding six I-65 bridges over I-465 and Lick Creek on the south side of Indianapolis.
Starting after 9 p.m., two lanes of southbound I-65 will be shifted across the median to share the widened northbound side of the interstate. Opposing directions of traffic will be separated by temporary concrete barriers. Traffic is expected to remain in this Phase 1 configuration through mid-summer.
After traffic is shifted to Phase 1, weather permitting, demolition of the existing southbound bridges will begin on or after Thursday, March 23. During demolition, the southbound I-65 ramp to eastbound I-465 may be temporarily closed during overnight hours. Up to two lanes of eastbound and westbound I-465 may be closed and some rolling slowdowns of traffic can be expected between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. for approximately two weeks.
Traffic during construction
Traffic lane shifts, median crossovers, and ramp closures are necessary to complete the project in phases while maximizing safety and mobility. Northbound I-65 will have three lanes and southbound I-65 will have two lanes throughout construction, except for overnight lane closures.
I-465 underneath the bridges will have closed shoulders and overnight lane closures. Specific dates and traffic restrictions will be announced in advance and communicated to motorists using electronic message signs. All interstate lane closures will be scheduled between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.
The I-65 and I-465 speed limits will be reduced to 55 mph through the work zone and further reduced to 45 mph when workers are present and lights are flashing.
Ramp closures ahead
The southbound I-65 ramp to eastbound I-465 is scheduled to close in April for up to 150 days. During the ramp closure, signed detours will direct traffic to Southport Road (Exit 103) to return northbound and access eastbound I-465.
Later this summer, both directions of I-65 traffic will be shifted to share the southbound side of the interstate while construction is completed on the northbound side. Phase 2 will also close the northbound I-65 ramp to westbound I-465 for up to 150 days.
Bridge construction is expected to be substantially complete, with all lanes and ramps open to traffic, before the end of this year.
SOURCE: INDOT East Central