Make wishtv.com your home page

Red Line construction changes traffic on Meridian, 38th streets

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Drivers can expect more changes Monday on the morning commute as Red Line construction ramps up.

Many drivers told News 8 they were sick of seeing orange cones.

The construction is causing some confusion, too. News 8 crews saw some drivers in the wrong lane Sunday on Meridian Street because they weren’t used to the changes yet. 

“The construction, it’s chaotic! Nuts! Bananas! It’s too much!” said Indy resident Doris Smith.

While some drivers are seeing red over the construction, people like Johnette Buckley who depend on IndyGo buses to get around said it’s worth it.

“I think it will be a good thing for the city to expand their routes because there are a lot of places you can’t get to that don’t have a bus route,” said Buckley.

Starting this week, Red Line construction will change a few routes for drivers. 

One lane of 38th Street, between Ruckle Street and College Avenue, will close in each direction, which also means you won’t be able to turn left onto or off of Broadway Street. That’ll last through April. 

It’s something Smith, who lives in the area, said is frustrating.

“It’s too much, that’s just too much for us,” said Smith.

Meanwhile, construction switched sides on Meridian over the weekend. 

Traffic will now drive on the west side of the street instead of the east side. 

Buckley said a few extra diversions now will help her get from point A to point B in no time once the project is finished.

“I think it’s going to be OK! Once they get it all set up and running,” said Buckley.

The Red Line is slated to open in September. 

Crews are also working on patching and repaving along Virginia Avenue this week as well.