INDOT's public virtual open houses will update North Split rebuild plans

INDIANAPOLIS -- With our attention so focused on the pandemic, it would be easy to forget other lingering issues in Indianapolis.

One of them is the state's controversial plan to rebuild the Interstate-65/Interstate-70 interchange, better known as the North Split.

The Indiana Department of Transportation Monday announced plans for two public hearings next week to share several updates on the proposal.

But since public hearings can't take place in the usual manner, these hearings will be "virtual open houses."

According to an INDOT press release, the North Split Project Team will share several updates during the meetings, including the "Aesthetic Design Guidelines, which were created as a result of the Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS) process."

The open houses are on April 28 at 2 p.m. and April 30 at 6 p.m.

Many long-standing Indianapolis neighborhood groups have opposed the proposed overhaul for the North Split.

PREVIOUS Neighborhood groups oppose North Split overhaul plan

INDOT recommended a $250 million plan to reconstruct the interchange due to the deterioration of bridges and pavement, and to ease congestion. The North Split was built 50 years ago and is nearing the end of its useful life, according to INDOT.

The same information will be presented at both open houses and will be conducted using the WebEx conferencing tool. During the presentation, attendees can view and listen to a formal presentation from the North Split Project Team, as well ask questions.

INDOT has provided instructions on how to take part in the open houses:

• WebEx links and instructions for accessing both Public Open Houses are posted on northsplit.com/virtual-open-house [lnks.gd].

• The Public Open House PowerPoint presentation and display boards will be made available northsplit.com/virtual-open-house [lnks.gd] prior to the Open Houses.

• A conference telephone number is provided if you are not able to see the presentation. If you participate via the conference telephone number, you will only be able to hear the audio portion of the presentation.

• Questions and comments about the presentation and display boards may be submitted through northsplit.com [lnks.gd] or via info@northsplit.com from April 28 through May 15, 2020. For more information, visit northsplit.com [lnks.gd].