INDIANAPOLIS — Before the sun came out Sunday morning, IndyGo's newest route is up and running.
"It's years in the making," IndyGo Chief Public Affairs Officer Carrie Black said.
The Purple Line spans 15 miles, connecting downtown Indianapolis to Lawrence. This is the second rapid transit line with a big push of being a faster, safer way to ride.
"It's connecting people to work, education, health care and opportunities," Black said.
According to IndyGo, the route is within walking distance of over 130,000 jobs and 60,000 people — a ride that's connecting communities.
"If you are able to hop on bus rapid transit in Lawrence and be able to ride downtown in just a matter of minutes to get to work, that's a game-changer," Black said.
IndyGo says the project cost $188 million, with half of that going toward infrastructure like new traffic signals, sidewalks and more.
Every part of this route is unique, from raised loading zones to being able to buy your ticket before getting on. Riders like the Stannard family said they are excited to use a new route that's right outside their door.
"We like going to the Children's Museum, so now we will have two buses so we won't have to wait as long," Kelly Stannard said.
For more information on routes, how to pay and more, click here.