Why is Interstate 69, between Evansville and Indianapolis, so important?
The highway will provide the opportunity for economic development to an area that lags behind the state and nation in job creation and personal income. When companies look to expand or relocate their operations, a key determining factor is the area’s access to interstates. Also, an interstate highway will increase safety and reduce travel times. The need for a connection between the state’s third largest city and the state capital was first identified in the early 1940s.
With the announcement that it will be a free highway, how will construction be financed?
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) has dedicated $700 million in Major Moves funds to begin construction of Interstate 69, approximately 1/3 of the project’s total cost. INDOT estimates these funds will build the highway from Evansville to Crane Navel Surface Warfare Center. If private investors pay a concession fee for the right to build the Indiana Commerce Connector, that fee could be used to help finish the remaining construction schedule of Interstate 69.
Does the federal lawsuit by Interstate 69 opponents impact the start of construction?
INDOT is continuing to move forward with its environmental studies and analysis to determine the exact location of the highway. Construction is expected to begin in the summer of 2008, unless the courts intervene.
When will the project be completed?
The original, earliest completion date was 2035. Using existing Major Moves funding and assuming a strong bid for the Indiana Commerce Connector, Interstate 69 is scheduled for completion in 2018.
What happens to the tolling authority the Indiana General Assembly authorized for Interstate 69?
Governor Daniels will ask the Indiana General Assembly during its 2007 session to transfer P3 tolling authority from Interstate 69 to the Indiana Commerce Connector project. The Indiana Commerce Connector can only be built if P3 tolling authority is granted.
Will Interstate 69 from Martinsville to Indianapolis still be built if the Indiana Commerce Connector is constructed?
Yes. These are two separate projects. The long-range forecasts for development between Indianapolis and Martinsville indicate traffic on the existing Indiana 37 will nearly double within the next 25 years under current conditions. Upgrading Indiana 37 to a fully access-controlled, interstate facility (Interstate 69) will reduce accidents and congestion and will provide a more efficient link between central and southwest Indiana. In addition, INDOT will continue working with local communities to address their concerns about the impact of Interstate 69 in their area.
Will the governor now focus more on building Indiana Commerce Connector than Interstate 69?
No. The governor is the lead champion for Interstate 69 and the only elected leader who has now suggested two ways to pay for it - neither involving a gas tax increase. In fact, the governor directed INDOT to inform the federal government that we are moving forward with the toll-free Interstate 69 plan approved in 2004.
Source: Office of Governor Mitch Daniels
Connector
November 10, 2006
Toll Free Interstate 69 (Evansville to Indianapolis)
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Indiana Commerce Connector
What is the Indiana Commerce Connector?
The Indiana Commerce Connector would be a 75-80 mile outer loop around the northeast, east, and south sides of Indianapolis. This tolled highway would run from Interstate 69 near Pendleton, past Greenfield, Shelbyville, Franklin, Martinsville, and terminate west of the Indianapolis International Airport. It would intersect with Interstates 70, 74, 65 and 69, and other major state highways. The Indiana Commerce Connector will be a public asset owned by the State of Indiana. -
Toll Free Interstate 69 (Evansville to Indianapolis)
Why is Interstate 69, between Evansville and Indianapolis, so important?
The highway will provide the opportunity for economic development to an area that lags behind the state and nation in job creation and personal income. When companies look to expand or relocate their operations, a key determining factor is the area’s access to interstates. Also, an interstate highway will increase safety and reduce travel times. The need for a connection between the state’s third largest city and the state capital was first identified in the early 1940s. - Toll Road: Your Opinion What do you think of Governor Daniels' proposed toll road plan? Discuss it!
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New loop
INDIANAPOLIS — The Pendleton area could become the northern end of a new central Indiana toll road loop if a proposal by Gov. Mitch Daniels becomes reality.
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