INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Public Transportation Corporation (IndyGo) hosted a groundbreaking event today to kick off construction of its Purple Line, the second of three planned bus rapid transit lines. The event took place on East 38th Street, the future home of the Purple Line. The new route will greatly increase economic opportunity and the quality of life for Indianapolis residents who need it most.
“The start of Purple Line construction symbolizes the beginning of new opportunity and growth for an entire community,” said IndyGo President and CEO Inez Evans. “We know this project will bring unprecedented renewal and phenomenal transformation as residents take advantage of the opportunity to move forward faster.”
“Connection and enhanced mobility are key for our city and its residents’ success,” said U.S. Rep. André Carson. “The Purple Line will take IndyGo’s bus rapid transit network to the next level and set an example for the nation on what’s possible when you put the community and riders first with faster, innovative, zero emissions transit. I’ll continue doing all I can in Congress to help IndyGo expand and reach more Hoosiers.”
“At the Federal Transit Administration, we’ve seen how public transportation has benefited cities across the country,” said FTA Regional Administrator Kelley Brookins. “IndyGo leads the way with one of the largest all-electric fleet BRT lines in the nation and we’re pleased to be able to support their continued efforts with over $103 million in federal funding to continue the extraordinary work.”
“The City of Lawrence is greatly looking forward to this project’s completion,” Lawrence Mayor Steve Collier said. “Economic development often follows rapid transit. With the launch of this project, IndyGo’s Purple Line will be increasingly important to our city’s continued growth.”
Speakers at today’s event included the following (pictured below):
- Inez Evans, IndyGo President and CEO
- Vop Osili, Indianapolis City-County Council President
- Mayor Joe Hogsett, City of Indianapolis
- Mayor Steve Collier, City of Lawrence
- Congressman André Carson, U.S. Representative
- Kelley Brookins, Federal Transit Administration Regional Administrator
- Ashley Gurvitz, Alliance of Northeast Unification Executive Director
The 15.2-mile project will connect Indianapolis to the City of Lawrence, and significantly upgrade a substantial portion of the existing Route 39 along the East 38th Street and Post Road corridors. Major infrastructure improvements will include nearly 10 miles of sidewalks, more than 350 ADA curb ramps, new street paving, a multi-use path, storm sewer separation and much more to advance the community.
Construction is anticipated to begin in early March, with the line expected to open for service in 2024. Learn more about the Purple Line at https://www.indygo.net/purple-line.
For more information, contact Carrie Black, IndyGo director of communications, at 317-664-1951.
###
Translate This Page
