INDIANAPOLIS — Several Irvington businesses are dropping their support for a bill that would halt IndyGo’s proposed Blue Line.
It comes after weeks of tension on social media and a heated hearing last week at the Statehouse.
Senate Bill 52, authored by State Sen. Aaron Freeman, R-District 32, would stop IndyGo from creating dedicated bus lanes until at least 2025.
Last week, some Irvington business owners endorsed the idea during a committee hearing and received backlash.
Then over the weekend, they reversed their stance, saying conversations in the community changed their opinion.
Those businesses include Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza, Black Sheep Gifts and Irvington Wellness Center.
On Facebook, Jockamo’s Pizza wrote, “We have listened to many voices who believe Irvington, and Indianapolis, would be a better place with the Blue Line Project as currently imagined.”
For months, business owners said construction and dedicated bus lanes would hurt their business and the historic charm of the downtown area. On the other hand, community members said the transit line would improve pedestrian safety in the area.
In a statement on Monday, Black Sheep Gifts said, “I am now in the minority regarding shared lanes versus designated lanes, and, as always, I stand with my community.”
13News also asked Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett about this ongoing debate. He said he’s cautiously optimistic.
“We will continue to keep an open mind, work with the legislators and their leadership and hopefully get this session behind us,” Hogsett said Monday.
Senate Bill 52 passed out of committee last week. It can now receive a second reading with the Senate.
The Blue Line project would replace the existing Route 8 bus service with a rapid transit line. It includes 24 miles along Washington Street between Cumberland and the Indianapolis International Airport.
Freeman issued the following statement Tuesday:
“I understand that an individual or business needs to do what is in their best interest, even if that means opposing a one-year prohibition on dedicated lanes. The goal is not to eliminate IndyGo, the Blue Line or take away buses from those who utilize public transit. In my opinion, eliminating 60% of the lanes of travel on Washington Street - from Hancock County to Hendricks County - in favor of buses only is not in the best interest of anyone. I stand steadfast in my decision to oppose the implementation and construction of dedicated lanes and I will continue to push for common-sense solutions to this issue."