Phase 1 of Merchants Square sewer & water upgrades starts Monday

Submitted by City of Carmel

Phase 1 of construction of the Merchants Square sewer and water project will officially begin on Monday, Nov. 9. You can see a high-quality map of the entire project plan at this link.

As part of this initial phase, pump-around operations are expected to commence during that first week. Drivers should review the Sanitary Sewer Pump-Around Road Closure Exhibit graphic shown here for access impacts to Merchants Square near BASH.

All local businesses in the Merchants Square area will remain open and accessible during construction. Drivers are encouraged to exercise caution and allow extra time when traveling near the work zone.

More information

The project will replace aging infrastructure, strengthen utility reliability, and accommodate future growth in one of Carmel’s key commercial hubs. Construction is scheduled to begin at the end of October and continue in rolling phases through the summer of 2027.

The project spans segments of Keystone Way, AAA Way, Merchants Square Drive, Medical Drive, and Range Line Road. Work will be carried out in 13 total phases to maintain traffic flow and limit disruption to the community.

Work will launch with Phases 1, 2, and 3 focusing on Keystone Way:

• Phase 1: Keystone Way, west of Keystone Parkway
• Phases 2 and 3: Continuing west along Keystone Way toward the AAA Way and 116th Street roundabout

To protect public safety and minimize traffic disruption, construction will move in localized, segmented steps rather than widespread closures. Clear detour signs will be posted in advance of each phase.

All businesses in the Merchants Square area will remain open and accessible throughout construction. Clear directional signage will guide customers, employees, deliveries, and emergency services safely to local destinations.

Drivers are encouraged to allow extra travel time through the corridor and follow marked detour routes.

For project updates, phasing maps and detour routes, visit the Carmel Utilities Projects page or call Carmel Utilities Customer Service at (317) 571-2442.