What is the status of the Blue Line?/Is the project still happening?
Yes, the project is still happening! Since the higher-than-expected cost estimate at the 60% design stage, IndyGo has been working diligently to see if there is a way to progress the desired project, while maintaining the vision of BRT set forth by previous BRT projects. IndyGo also has been working closely with project partners, especially the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and City of Indianapolis, and has determined that there is a viable path forward for the Blue Line. IndyGo is currently progressing the following project development activities:
- 90% design
- Design along Washington Street east of Holt Road has not substantially changed from what was included in earlier design stages, with the exception of stormwater design. This means that center running BRT (similar to Red and Purple lines) is still being carried forward in design.
- Working with the FTA and partner agencies to receive environmental approval (NEPA).
- Updating FTA project ratings.
- Working with FTA to coordinate Capital Investment Grant (CIG) agreement.
work with project partners as we maintain our commitment to complete a transit project along Washington Street that delivers more efficient, accessible and rapid service to the community.
Why is the original route on West Washington Street between the Airport and Holt Road no longer included in the Blue Line?
The decision to alter the Blue Line’s alignment between the Airport and Holt Road was made with heavy consideration and collaboration with key stakeholders. The high cost of construction in the segment, low existing and projected ridership, design delays and property acquisition challenges on that segment were all factors that led to the decision. The Blue Line will now operate on I-70 between the Airport and Holt Road, then connect back to West Washington Street via Holt Road.
Why shift from electric to hybrid buses?
The shift to hybrid buses allows IndyGo to reach our clean fleet goals of lowering our carbon footprint, aligns with the FTA Grant submission requirements and meets our operating range needs without the costs of charging infrastructure. Hybrid buses will also give us more flexibility moving forward. The change has a significant cost savings, providing IndyGo a better chance at being able to proceed with the project. Note that this shift is only for the initial bus purchase right now. IndyGo will look for opportunities to replace the hybrid buses with zero emission vehicles as they are retired. Learn more here.
What is the latest timeline?
The 90% design phase is underway. There are a lot of moving pieces and factors that will determine the timeline moving forward. As such, the timeline is subject to change depending on how the project progresses. The following are current milestone estimates:
- 90% Design -> November 2023
- Final Design -> Q2 of 2024
- FTA Grant Agreement -> Q3 of 2024
- Construction Start -> Q1 of 2025
- Construction End and Blue Line Opening -> 2027
What are the latest cost projections?
The current project cost estimate is between $370-390 million. As design progresses and IndyGo gets closer to executing the FTA Grant, a final cost estimate will be developed.
How did IndyGo get the project costs down?
Three primary components of the project were adjusted to reduce overall cost. The first was to modify the vehicle from battery electric to diesel hybrid propulsion. Changing vehicle propulsion type significantly reduced the total number of vehicles required to operate the line and also reduced charging infrastructure needs, both at IndyGo facilities and at each end of the line. See previous answer that expands further on this decision.
The second component involved modifying the drainage design (with close coordination with the City of Indianapolis’ Department of Public Works and Citizens Energy Group) by consolidating detention sites and more closely considering which existing drainage systems could be feasibly included as a part of the project. Lastly, the Indianapolis International Airport has committed to leading construction for the future Blue Line’s western-most planned stop at the airport.
How is IndyGo planning to fund the project at the current cost projections?
Local contributions from IndyGo, the City of Indianapolis and Citizens Energy Group were all increased in order to fund the project. In addition to federal funds through the FTA, federal funds through the Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization (IMPO) are also being utilized on the project. IndyGo, in conjunction with the City of Indianapolis, is also diligently considering, and pursuing where appropriate, additional federal funding opportunities.