INDIANAPOLIS — There is a big change coming to Interstate 465 on the southeast side that will impact how you merge onto the interstate.
The new technology is called “ramp metering.”
INDOT is starting to install the ramp meters above on-ramps this month. The goal is to have them working by the end of the year. This is the first time the state is using this technology after studying it in other big cities.
“It will bring traffic onto 465 in a more controlled manner,” said Natalie Garrett, the strategic communications director for INDOT.
The ramp meters look similar to traffic lights and will regulate when cars can enter the interstate by using sensors in the pavement.
Red will mean stop and green will mean go, but when the meter is not in use, the signal will flash yellow. If the ramp gets full while the meter is in use, the signal will adapt to traffic conditions and temporarily flash yellow until the ramp is empty again.
INDOT said the lights will only be activated during peak travel times or if there is an accident.
They will be placed at on-ramps along I-465 on the southeast side from I-65 to I-70. That includes ramps off Emerson Avenue, Southeastern Avenue, Shadeland Avenue, Brookville Road/US 52 and Washington Street/US 40.
“On this section of 465, as many Indianapolis commuters know, tends to get quite congested, especially during those peak times,” Garrett said.
INDOT will also be adding a “Variable Speed Limit” system along this stretch. It is a digital speed limit sign that changes based on traffic. For example, if there is an accident, construction or bad weather, the speed limit might drop to 45 mph.
They will be posted a half-mile apart from one another on both sides of the road.
“We ask people to be patient and give it a chance, all with a goal of safety and more efficient travel in mind,” Garrett said.
This is all part of INDOT’s project to improve safety on the southeast portion of I-465.
INDOT said Indiana State Police troopers will also be educating drivers and enforcing these new changes once they are in place.
The ramp meters are expected to be turned on by the end of the year. The variable speed limit system will start after that.