IndyGo Seeking Bids For Red Line

The Red Line will run from a station in Broad Ripple (rendering pictured) to the University of Indianapolis.

IndyGo is looking for contractors to begin work on the Red Line Rapid Transit project. The organization has released construction bid packages and plans to announce the winning bids in December and break ground on the project in January.

The project will expand the city’s public transit system with a 13-mile stretch from Broad Ripple to the University of Indianapolis. In May, Congress approved $50 million in grants for the project, below the $75 million IndyGo originally expected. IndyGo also expects to receive more than $54 million in 2018 through a 0.25 percent income tax increase approved in February by the Indianapolis City-County Council.

IndyGo says officials will continue to meet with business owners and residents about the schedule of the project and resources that will be made available as construction rolls on. 

"During construction, IndyGo is committed to mitigating impacts to pedestrians, bicyclists, traffic and parking," said Bryan Luellen, vice president of public affairs for IndyGo. "As such, some restrictions and timing requirements will be included in the bid documents including but not limited to work restrictions for special events, a limit on consecutive intersections impacted at one time, and signage to redirect traffic to support business access."

IndyGo says it expects to begin service on the Red Line in 2019. The organization adds the Red Line will serve as the "frequent spine of the improved efficient grid network." In March, IndyGo Chief Executive Officer Mike Terry told Inside INdiana Business Television the line would have a "huge benefit" to the area.