IndyGo to open new training facility in spring of 2021 for training of 200 new drivers
INDIANAPOLIS – Today IndyGo and Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD) formalized their plan to redevelop 6.5 acres of the former Carrier Bryant site located in the Riverside neighborhood. The Metropolitan Development Commission authorized the sale and transfer of the property on January 2, 2019. The IndyGo Board of Directors voted to approve the purchase at the December 6, 2018 meeting.
As the transit agency continues implementation of a 70% increase in service, more than 200 operators will be hired and trained in the next year. Currently due to space constraints, training and CDL certification is led in temporary trailers on-site at IndyGo headquarters. This new training facility will mean 3,500 square feet of classroom space for new hires and certification updates, as well as 5 acres of space for behind-the-wheel training. The facility will also serve as a contingency operations location if needed. IndyGo is also looking to leverage this new facility to enhance their employment opportunities through internships, partnerships and a youth apprentice program. The former Carrier-Bryant site was developed in early 1900’s as a machine tool shop, and was later used by Carrier-Bryant as a manufacturing center for heating and air conditioning implements, which ceased operations by 1983. The site was subsequently used for storage/warehousing of heavy equipment, construction debris and food processing materials, becoming vacant by 2004. The City took possession of site in 2012, and requested EPA Emergency Response action to remove abandoned drums of hazardous materials. In 2013 the City subsequently applied for and received a $500,00 OCRA grant to demolish structures, and conduct incidental environmental remediation activities. After demolition and remediation, the City worked with the Indiana Finance Authority to fund a site-wide environmental assessment, and achieved regulatory closure in late-2016.
The Department of Metropolitan Development will issue a Request for Information to facilitate the redevelopment of the remaining portion of the site by mid-year 2020. DMD will be evaluating responses that propose future redevelopment for the remaining acreage of the Carrier Bryant site in partnership with IndyGo and community stakeholders.
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About IndyGo
IndyGo, the Indianapolis Public Transportation Corporation, is committed to connecting the community to economic and cultural opportunities through safe, reliable, and accessible mobility experiences. The IndyGo Red Line is the nation’s longest fully-battery electric bus rapid transit line, and provides 10-15 minute service to an average of 7,000 trips per day through the heart of Indianapolis. To learn more, visit our website, follow us on Twitter @IndyGoBus, or call 317.635.3344.
About the Department of Metropolitan Development
The Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD) works to plan and preserve our city; to provide housing assistance to our most vulnerable people; to redevelop key sites; and to bring new jobs to Indianapolis. DMD envisions Indianapolis as a growing, vibrant, and beautiful city where people and businesses thrive in an inclusive, world class community. For more information about DMD, visit www.indy.gov/dmd.