Weather permitting, construction contractors plan to close the southbound Interstate 65 ramp to eastbound Interstate 465 on the south side of Indianapolis for up to 150 days starting on Monday, April 10 after 9 p.m.
During the ramp closure, signed detours will direct traffic to Southport Road (Exit 103) to return northbound on I-65 and access eastbound I-465.
Overnight closures of up to two lanes of westbound I-465 and the northbound I-65 ramp to westbound I-465 continue for bridge demolition starting each night at 9 p.m. until 6 a.m. The overnight lane and ramp closures allow crews to remove the I-65 bridges above as part of the $19.6 million project rebuilding six I-65 bridges over I-465 and Lick Creek.
What to expect ahead
Two lanes of southbound I-65 are shifted across the median to share the widened northbound side of the interstate. Opposing directions of traffic are separated by temporary concrete barriers. Traffic is expected to remain in this Phase 1 configuration through mid-summer.
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.
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 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 are reduced to 55 mph through the work zone and further reduced to 45 mph when workers are present and lights are flashing.
SOURCE: INDOT