INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Department of Transportation is aiming to open the North Split to traffic by the end of 2022, a spokesperson now says.
However, there are several factors that could change that timeline, according to INDOT Strategic Communications Director Natalie Garrett.
That includes supply chain and workforce challenges, as well as weather.
"INDOT is working with the prime contractor, as well as subcontractors and suppliers to combat these issues that may affect the project schedule. We are hopeful that as other construction projects wrap up around the region, there will be less demand for materials, improving lead times. We are also working with Superior to bring extra crews onto the North Split," Garrett wrote in an email to WRTV.
Garrett also noted that the interchange won't be opened all at once but in increments.
"While it’s possible that it could be 2023 before some movements reopen, we are still pushing toward our goal of opening by the end of the year," Garrett said.
Anne Burns is one of the owners at Andrews Florist in downtown Indianapolis. She couldn’t put an exact percentage on how much businesses have been impacted, by the closure but it even impacts her employees.
“He has to leave a lot earlier from home and he gets home a lot later – he does this 5 days a week,” Burns said.
Her and her husbands has been business for about 35 years.
Burns does want to remind customers that her flower shop is open despite the ongoing construction issues.
“Hang in there – we are not going anywhere and just take your time in traffic,” Burns said.
The multi-million dollar project started in May 2021 and closed Interstate 65 between the north and south splits. INDOT's goal is to get rid of factors that cause crashes and congestion.
INDOT plans to give an update on the reopening of the Pine Street ramp tomorrow.
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