This spring, Milestone contractors began work on the transformative I-65 Safety & Efficiency Project. The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) project will ultimately create a more connected Southeast Indianapolis and is expected to be complete in 2027. The project will affect about five miles of highway spanning from the I-465 interchange to north of Fletcher Avenue. Improvements include replacing bridges, repaving and adding a travel lane to reduce traffic congestion. 

As the prime contractor on the job, our Milestone teams are tackling a complex and ambitious scope of work. The project includes two full bridge reconstructions, and a new travel lane will be added in each direction, bringing the total to four lanes each way. Sidewalk upgrades will enhance pedestrian safety and connectivity throughout the corridor. On the north end, pavement will be fully replaced from just north of Fletcher Avenue to just south of the I-65/I-70 overpass. Additionally, an abandoned railroad bridge near Fletcher Avenue will be removed to clear the way for smoother traffic flow. 

“This project is a true team effort, and we’re thankful for the strong partnership we’ve built with INDOT. Their collaboration has been key to navigating the complexity of this work,” said Milestone General Superintendent Josh Callahan. “Safety remains our top priority, and I’m proud of how our crews continue to rise to the challenge with skill and dedication.” 

One of the most logistically challenging aspects of the job is its segmented nature. Construction is happening in phases, requiring careful coordination and traffic management. Currently, traffic flows on either side of the work zone, but this fall, it will shift to the outside lanes to accommodate the next phase of construction. The speed limit has also been reduced to 45 mph throughout the work zone to protect both workers and drivers. 

Bridge work is also a major focus of the project. The Hanna Avenue bridge will be completely rebuilt to improve connectivity and pedestrian safety. An abandoned railroad bridge near Fletcher Avenue will be removed to streamline traffic flow. Bridges at Naomi Street, Pleasant Run and Morris Street will be widened for the new travel lane. The NB bridge on I65 over Morris/Prospect will receive new end bents, beams and superstructure. Structural upgrades to these bridges and 18 others along the corridor aim to extend their lifespan. 

“Coordinating work across more than 20 bridges in an active corridor is no small feat,” said Milestone General Superintendent Jason Plumlee. “Our crews have done an outstanding job managing the logistics and keeping safety at the forefront every step of the way.” 

The I-65 Safety & Efficiency Project takes a proactive approach to improving infrastructure before congestion worsens. The project is designed to handle traffic needs through 2045, extend the life of pavement and bridges by at least 10 years and upgrade drainage and pedestrian features to meet current standards. Kudos to the entire team for their incredible work and dedication throughout this complex project. We’re excited to see it all come together and look forward to celebrating its successful completion soon! 

For updates and more information from INDOT, visit i65safetyandefficiency.com.