IndyGo plans to expedite construction of its 13-mile Red Line project running from Broad Ripple to the University of Indianapolis campus, moving up scheduled completion to no later than the end of the summer.
The Indianapolis-based transit agency detailed its plans at a press conference late Tuesday afternoon. Construction of the $96.3 million project began last June, including creating dedicated lanes for the buses and stations with canopies and ticket vending machines.
The acceleration of the construction schedule is expected to shave four months off the project, according to IndyGo. Beginning Monday, as many as 20 construction crews will work simultaneously along the route, and contractors will do more work on evenings and weekends.
The construction activity has had a direct impact on local drivers along the route, closing lanes of traffic as crews relocate utilities and pour foundations for the stations. Lane restrictions are expected in coming weeks for portions of Virginia Avenue, Shelby Street, Capitol Avenue and Meridian Street.
Also beginning Monday, all street parking will be restricted from 38th to 66th streets on College Avenue.
"We know the community is eager to see construction complete and have the Red Line up and operating," said Mike Terry, IndyGo president and CEO.
Once Red Line service starts, buses will arrive at dedicated stops every ten minutes. The Red Line will operate for 20 hours each day, 7 days a week.