INDIANAPOLIS — After almost five months of phase two of construction, Broad Ripple Avenue reopened to vehicle traffic on Friday.
The Broad Ripple Village Association called it a major milestone.
“DPW still has work to do, and our team that is here still has work to do, but this is a high milestone getting this portion of the project done,” said Jordan Dillon, executive director of BRVA.
Broad Ripple Avenue has been closed since 2022 with construction happening in two phases. The latest project closed Broad Ripple Avenue from Guilford Avenue to College Avenue.
Shops like Ripple Bagel & Deli said it hurt business during those months.
“Now that we are going to have parking right out front, people can stop and pick up their food really quick and it doesn’t feel like such a chore finding parking,” said Julian Orem, general manager for Ripple Bagel & Deli.
Like many, Orem felt like this day would never come until the construction signs and barrels were moved Friday morning.
“It’s a good feeling. It definitely felt like it had run its course,” Orem said.
Those who work and live in the area said it’s exciting and a huge relief.
“It’s a new era for Broad Ripple and a good one,” said Tom Probasco.
“Don’t avoid it anymore. It is open and ready,” said Charles Smith. “Everyone come check it out.”
The total price tag for the project was $8.9 million. The money was used to widen sidewalks, add new streetlights and upgrade the drainage system.
Dillon said the improvements are making a big difference.
“The sidewalks are fully open, and we got people walking around having lunch. It feels so good,” she said.
Here are the next steps in the project:
- Creating a 12-foot wide multi-use trail that will run from the Monon Trail to Primrose Avenue (Broad Ripple Park)
- Resurfacing the rest of the street to Primrose Avenue
- This will be done in two phases: Eastbound lanes will close, followed by the closure of westbound lanes. Detours will be put in place.
- Installing a center median curb with trees
- Installing a minor stormwater pipe
- Working on side roads
- Completing pavement markings