In an effort to reduce traffic mishaps along a key corridor of Pendleton Pike (U.S. 36 / State Road 67), the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) is rolling out a series of enhancements. These upgrades, spanning a five-mile stretch from I-465 to 65th Street, aim to improve safety and streamline traffic flow through structural changes and procedural adjustments. The region in question has a reputation for harboring a higher-than-average number of road accidents, prompting these proactive measures by the state agency, according to the Indiana Department of Transportation.
Among the changes, drivers will soon encounter is the installation of raised medians. These will supplant portions of the existing center turn lane, intended to direct traffic more clearly and prevent some of the risky maneuvers that have been leading to collisions. To complement the medians, new turn procedures are being introduced, making it necessary to use nearby intersections or execute a legal U-turn to continue traveling on Pendleton Pike. Providing signal assistance, green arrows will help guide left-turning traffic at designated points, or when arrows are not present, drivers are instructed to yield until it is safe to proceed.
In addition to these traffic-centric improvements, INDOT is placing an emphasis on pedestrian safety. Upgrades along this corridor will include the installation of new sidewalk sections near 56th Street and enhancements to curb ramps.
While work is already underway, residents and travelers can expect the construction to be part of the local landscape for up to two years, as reported by the City of Lawrence official website.
