BEDFORD – January 2025 in Bedford started with a whirlwind of activity, from significant public works projects to the community’s response to an intense winter storm, and a dramatic, somber event that gripped the region.
A New Chapter for Spider Creek
Construction on the Spider Creek Lift Station began in January. This crucial $22-25 million project will replace the original sewer lift station with a new, state-of-the-art system. The new station features a modern pump station, a mechanical fine screen, and a new force main extending over 5,500 feet south. A key addition is a large, above-ground storage tank designed to hold diluted sewage during heavy rains, preventing overflows until the system can safely process it.
Reynolds Construction and Mitchell & Stark Construction are leading the charge, with the force main piping already completed and road restoration. The entire project is on schedule for completion in October 2025.
Winter Storm Response
Indiana faced a severe winter storm, prompting Governor Eric Holcomb to activate the Indiana National Guard. Deployed across the state, 122 Hoosier Guardsmen formed Highway Assistance Teams to help stranded motorists and aid first responders.
Indiana experienced significant snowfall during the first few days of January 2025, with the most impactful winter storm occurring on January 5-6, 2025, bringing heavy snow and high winds to much of the state, particularly in central and southern areas, resulting in hazardous travel conditions and school closures. The storm resulted in snowfall totals ranging from 6 to 13 inches in many places.
Operating from seven armories, including one in Bedford, these teams worked closely with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security and the Indiana State Police. The Guard’s activation, which was set to last through January 7, highlighted their commitment to community safety during extreme weather events.
A Deputy’s Courage
The month also saw a tragic and heroic story unfold. Orange County Deputy Zach Andry was critically wounded after being ambushed while investigating a disabled vehicle.
He was shot multiple times, with Sheriff David Henderson noting that Deputy Andry was unable to unholster his weapon.
The suspect, Austin Schepers, was later located in Louisville, Kentucky, where he was killed in a shootout with law enforcement.
Deputy Andry was transported to a hospital in Louisville, where he remains in “critical but stable” condition. He was released from the hospital in April 2025.
