The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) announced that I-65 southbound will reopen ahead of schedule. The artery had been shut down for bridge deck patching and joint repairs since October 15, initially projected to last up to 16 days. FOX59 reports that beginning Friday afternoon, the reopening process between West Street and Alabama Street will commence, with full accessibility expected by early Saturday.
According to WISH-TV, the West Street entrance ramp will welcome drivers by 3 p.m. Friday, trailed by the southbound lanes of I-65. Despite conducting the act of reopening, INDOT has scheduled lane closures beginning at 9 p.m. on Friday to facilitate thorough traffic flow. Motorists are urged to exercise additional care during these changes and the ongoing reopening procedure.
The move to reopen the road is a significant milestone, wrapping up more than five days ahead of the anticipated completion date. "Crews will reopen the roadway more than five days ahead of schedule," INDOT expressed in their statement sourced from FOX59. This development is not only a testament to the efficiency of the workers but also a boon for commuters who have been navigating detours and delays.
Further emphasizing safety, INDOT's statement to WTHR said, "Motorists should drive carefully and watch for changing traffic patterns during the reopening process." Drivers can anticipate all lanes and ramps to be operational by 4 a.m. Saturday, although the specific time of reopening lanes could still impact travel plans slightly on Friday night.
