126th Street has been closed to east-west traffic at State Road 37 since late February, but as of Thursday, motorists are getting their first look at the newly-constructed interchange.
East-west traveling vehicles will cross SR 37 on an elevated roundabout. SR 37 traffic heading north and south will not be impeded at 126th Street as an underpass has been constructed underneath that roundabout.
This is the first phase of the massive State Road 37 project in Fishers, and there is much left to be done. Construction has already begun at 146th Street and SR 37 and that work is projected to continue well into 2022. Bids will be let on the reconstruction of 131st Street and SR 37 within a month or two, with work expected to begin next year. The design phase for the SR 37 and 141st Street interchange should be completed soon, with bids expected to be opened about one year from now.
The project is over budget. Mayor Scott Fadness insists the city can fund the project shortfall by borrowing once a municipal bond is paid off in 2024, therefore not impacting the city’s property tax rate.
At Thursday’s opening, there was not a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony in lieu of the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, a caravan of vehicles opened up the road officially, with the first vehicle driving through the ribbon.
“It’s rewarding to see the hard work that has been done thus far and the magnitude of the improvements on SR 37 at this stage,” Fadness said in city news release. “This section will reduce congestion and streamline traffic flow, providing a safe intersection for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.”
State Road 37 will continue to be open during all remaining phases of construction, with two northbound and two southbound lanes open during each phase. There will be closures on side roads with alternative routes always accessible. All interchanges within this improvement project are scheduled to be complete in 2023.
“We appreciate the patience and adaptability of our local businesses and the community at large,” County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt said. “A project of this size disrupts our day-to-day, but its positive impact will be felt by all of us for years to come.”
The City of Fishers, City of Noblesville, Hamilton County, and INDOT are working together to improve the accessibility of SR 37 for local businesses, residents, and those driving into the city.