Proposal 142, the ordinance language enabling IndyGo to move forward with the next steps for the Purple Line rapid transit project and supporting infrastructure repairs to the 38th Street corridor, has been approved by the Indianapolis City-County Council.
The Public Works Committee of the City-County Council voted to support the proposed ordinance changes on April 16, 2020. With full approval from the City-County Council received, IndyGo can finalize the funding process for the Purple Line and related infrastructure projects.
The overall project budget for the Purple Line project is estimated at $155 million. More than half of the overall budget, about $95 million, is projected to go to infrastructure improvements throughout the 15.2-mile Purple Line route. These infrastructure projects will be transformative for the corridor, including new pavement, new or repaired sidewalk, a new multi-use path for pedestrians and bicyclists and new traffic signals and ADA compliant curb ramps. The Purple Line project will also create an opportunity for IndyGo, the Indianapolis Department of Public Works and local utility providers to coordinate and deliver an improved drainage solution for the area.
“IndyGo commends the leadership of the City-County Council in approving the Purple Line project,” said Inez Evans, president and CEO of IndyGo. “With this approval, and with the support of our partners at the city of Indianapolis Department of Public Works and Citizens Energy Group, we’re excited to step closer to improved transit service and infrastructure for our city.”
The Purple Line project is planned to go out to bid in early 2021, and the rapid transit line is projected to open for revenue service in 2023.