126th Street has been closed to east-west traffic at State Road 37 since late February, but as of November 19th, motorists are getting their first look at the newly-constructed interchange. East-west vehicles will cross SR 37 on an elevated roundabout. State Road 37 traffic heading north and south will not be impeded at 126th Street as an underpass has been constructed underneath that roundabout.
This is the first phase of the massive State Road 37 project in Fishers. There is much left to be done. Construction has already begun at 146th Street at SR 37 and that work is projected to continue well into 2022. Bids will be let on the reconstruction of 131st Street & ST 37 within a month or two, with work expected to begin next year. The design phase for the SR 37 & 141st Street interchange should be completed soon, with bids expected to be opened in about one year from now.
The project is over budget. Mayor Scott Fadness insists the city can fund the project shortfall by borrowing once a municipal bond is paid-off in 2024, therefore not impacting the city’s property tax rate.
There was not a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony in lieu of the COVID-19 pandemic. There was a caravan of vehicles that opened up the road officially Thursday, with the first vehicle driving through the ribbon.
“It’s rewarding to see the hard work that has been done thus far and the magnitude of the improvements on SR 37 at this stage,” says Scott Fadness, Mayor of Fishers, in a city news release. “This section will reduce congestion and streamline traffic flow, providing a safe intersection for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.”
State Road 37 will continue to be open during all remaining phases of construction, with two northbound and two southbound lanes open during each phase. There will be closures on side roads with alternative routes always accessible. All interchanges within this improvement project are scheduled to be complete in 2023
“We appreciate the patience and adaptability of our local businesses and the community at large,” said Mark Heirbrandt, Hamilton County Commissioner. “A project of this size disrupts our day-to-day, but its positive impact will be felt by all of us for years to come.”
The City of Fishers, City of Noblesville, Hamilton County, and INDOT are working together to improve the accessibility of SR37 for local businesses, residents, and those driving into the city.
