INDOT to host an open house Thursday for intersection improvements on US 31 in Bartholomew County

BARTHOLOMEW CO. — In partnership with Crawford, Murphy, and Tilly Inc., the Indiana Department of Transportation will host an open house for an intersection improvement project on U.S. 31 at Tannehill Road (C.R. 650 N.) and Bear Lane on Thursday, March 31, at Taylorsville Elementary School (9711 Walnut Street, Taylorsville, IN). The meeting will provide an opportunity for the public to ask questions and learn more about the project.

The $3.1 million project includes the construction of two reduced conflict intersections (RCIs):

  • U.S. 31 at Tannehill Road 
  • U.S. 31 at Bear Lane/Frontage Road 

As a result, the current intersection of U.S. 31 and Bear Lane/Frontage Road will close, and all left-turn and thru movements will utilize RCIs to the north and south.

Additional work includes reconstruction of the exit ramp from northbound I-65 to U.S. 31. The project aims to enhance safety, improve traffic flow, and reduce crash frequency. The contract is scheduled to let to contractors this fall.

Reduced conflict intersections are used as alternatives to traditional intersections on high-speed, four-lane divided highways. Instead of vehicles crossing fast-moving lanes of mainline traffic to go
straight or turn left, motorists on secondary roads turn right in the same direction of traffic at the RCI, merge into the left lane, and then make a U-turn in the direction they intend to travel. More information about RCIs can be found here.

Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. and attendees will have the opportunity to interact with members of the project team. A presentation will begin at 5:30 p.m. Questions and comments may be submitted in person at the open house or via email to Adam Burns (aburns@cmtengr.com) with Crawford, Murphy, and Tilly. Project materials will also be available on the INDOT Seymour District webpage following Thursday’s meeting.