INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis is seeing a 17% increase in crashes involving pedestrians this year over 2022, and there are still a few months left.
This year, IMPD reports at least 250 pedestrian-related crashes so far. That's 37 more over this time last year.
So, why the increase?
"That's a great question. If I had an answer, I'd love to give it to you," said Brandon Herget, director of the Department of Public Works. "Just like every other major city in the country, we've seen a drastic increase since COVID."
Leaders said drivers were likely reckless with less traffic on the roads during the pandemic and now, repeating bad behavior.
"People don't want to be slowed down. I understand that. It's causing problems, it's causing deaths," said Democratic state representative Ed DeLaney.
At least 24 lives have been lost in 2023, and it's getting state and local leaders' attention.
"As we face this pedestrian safety crisis as a city, it's something that weighs on us every day," Herget said.
Herget's job is road safety with DPW. He said the infrastructure is overbuilt.
Right now, crews are converting one-way roads to both directions. College Avenue is currently under construction with crews breaking ground on Michigan and New York streets next.
Crews are installing dozens of "no-turn on red" signs at busy intersections.
"Over the next few years, we're going to see a number of significant changes in the way traffic moves around the city," Herget said.
The city is looking at more opportunities long-term and what money will allow.
"We can't encourage people to spend millions and millions building bike paths, and bike ways, and bike lanes and pedestrian places and then say, 'We're going to suffer an unnecessary increase in deaths.' We can't do both those things," Rep. DeLaney said.
Leaders are looking for the community's help, too.
"The message is just slow down. We're all trying to get to our destination," Herget said. "Be careful out there. We want to see everyone get home at the end of the day."
Rep. DeLaney encourages the public to reach out to the Mayors Action Center and Indianapolis City-County Council with concerns.