IndyGo Celebrates Breaking Ground on the Blue Line

This event marks the start of construction on IndyGo’s largest Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route, bringing faster, safer, more reliable service and transformative infrastructure along the Washington Street corridor

INDIANAPOLIS — IndyGo hosted a groundbreaking event today to kick off construction of its Blue Line, Indianapolis’ third and largest bus rapid transit (BRT) line. The event took place in Irvington, which is along the route of the Blue Line’s future home. Once complete, this 24-mile project will provide rapid transit along Washington Street between Cumberland and the Indianapolis International Airport, using I-70 west of Holt Road. Service will replace and improve the existing Route 8.

“We are so grateful that Indianapolis has made the decision to invest in transit, recognizing that it stimulates growth, offers economic mobility and helps us attract the best talent to our city,” said IndyGo President and CEO Jennifer Pyrz. “We are one step closer to faster, more reliable and more accessible transit.”

Construction is anticipated to start in March 2025 and continue through late-2028, when the Blue Line is expected to open for service.

“The new BRT line offers an equitable alternative to driving for people of all ages and also serves as a cornerstone of transportation options for Indianapolis and central Indiana,” said IndyGo Board Chair Gregory Hahn. “Today’s groundbreaking is a shining example of IndyGo’s mission to connect our community to economic and cultural opportunities through safe, reliable and accessible mobility experiences.”

The Blue Line project is funded through a combination of local and federal sources, including a $150 million Small Starts Grant from the Federal Transit Administration and nearly $22 million from the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation.

“With Blue Line construction now set to begin, there’s no doubt that we are moving toward a bright new future here in Indianapolis,” said Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett. “On behalf of a grateful city, on behalf of a proud city, I extend my thanks to IndyGo for not only making today possible but also for their continued dedication to Indianapolis and its residents.”

In addition to improving and modernizing local public transportation, the Blue Line is a substantial infrastructure project, addressing the condition of the roadway, traffic safety, pedestrian facilities and stormwater drainage. Improvements include sidewalk construction, upgraded curb ramps, new crosswalks, and traffic and pedestrian signals.

“Reliable public transportation is not just a service. It is a lifeline that empowers residents, strengthens neighborhoods and fuels our local economy,” said Indianapolis City-County Council President Vop Osili.

Speakers at today’s event included the following:

Jennifer Pyrz, IndyGo President and CEO
Gregory Hahn, IndyGo Board Chair
Blake Johnson, Indiana State Representative (via video)
Vop Osili, Indianapolis City-County Council President
Mayor Joe Hogsett, City of Indianapolis
Reese McClure, High School Student and Irvington Resident

Activities have already started in preparation for Blue Line construction. Last fall, utility companies were given notices to begin relocating facilities determined to be in conflict with the new design.

Learn more about the Blue Line and construction details, as well as subscribe to the newsletter for project updates, at https://www.indygo.net/blue-line/.

(Please see below for photos and highlights from the event.)

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