Renew Richmond is your one stop to learn more about Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) road projects underway or planned for Wayne County.
- Construction on the U.S. 27 bridge replacement project started in spring 2023 and continues through summer 2025. Learn more below.
- Revive I-70 includes improvements for 20+ miles of I-70 in Wayne County. Learn more below.
Anticipated construction schedules are subject to change based on contractor and material availability.
U.S. 27 Bridge Replacement
The U.S. 27 bridge is being replaced in Richmond. The project includes the long-term closure of US 27 from North D Street to North G Street and Fort Wayne Avenue from North 8th Street to North F Street (north of the railroad tracks). Access is being maintained for local businesses.
The long-term closures are expected to be in place through early 2025 when both US 27 and Fort Wayne Avenue are expected to reopen to traffic. Construction is expected to be completed in summer 2025.
The project is replacing the deteriorating US 27 bridge over Norfolk Southern Railroad (NSRR) and local streets in Richmond. The improvements will address current safety issues with pier columns in busy downtown streets, and pedestrian facilities will be improved to be compliant with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Crews poured the concrete deck for the new bridge in summer 2024. Paving work on the bridge and local streets will continue through fall 2024. Additional lighting, railings, and other punch list items will be completed in the coming months. More information about the beams and deck for the new bridge can be found here and more information about the bridge replacement project can be found here.
The new bridge is expected to open to traffic in early 2025.
March 2023 | Public Information Meeting Documents
Revive I-70
Revive I-70 will improve I-70 in Wayne County from west of Cambridge City to the Indiana/Ohio state line. The project is expected to reduce congestion, improve traffic flow and improve safety along the 20+ mile corridor. Visit Revive I-70 to learn more.
Because of the size of the corridor and scope of improvements, the project is being divided into three contracts for project delivery. Pavement patching from west of Centerville to US 35 is scheduled for November and December 2024.
Contract 1 extends from west of US 35 to the Ohio state line with construction expected to begin in early 2025. It includes added travel lanes, interchange modifications at US 35 and US 40, and other improvements.I-70 will remain open to traffic during construction, with two lanes open in each direction most of the time. Some ramp closures are expected, and advance notice will be provided.
Contract 2 extends from west of SR 1 to west of Centerville with construction expected to begin in fall 2025. It includes pavement rehabilitation and bridge improvements.
Contract 3 is the center portion of the project and extends from west of Centerville to US 35. improvements are still being identified with interested contractors expected to submit bids on the project in 2027.
Project Coordination
INDOT is completing hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure improvements in Wayne County. It’s part of Governor Eric Holcomb’s Next Level Roads Plan, which is investing an estimated $60 billion in roads and bridges statewide over 20 years.
INDOT coordinates its construction program with city and county projects to maximize the service life and good condition of its pavement and bridges. INDOT also works to minimize traffic delays and detours while keeping projects moving forward.
Stay in Touch
- Sign up for text message and email updates for Wayne County and other counties within INDOT’s East Central (Greenfield) District.
- Follow INDOT East Central on Facebook and X.
- For questions or comments about projects in the Richmond area, contact INDOT’s Next Level customer service team by using the web form at www.INDOT4U.com, calling 855-INDOT4U (1-855-463-6848) or via email at INDOT@indot.in.gov.
- How will INDOT projects improve efficiency?
Design improvements will increase the capacity of highways in Wayne County, allowing for more efficient traffic flow and reduce backups during peak travel times. Improvement will strengthen regional connectivity and the mobility of people and goods in the area.
- How will INDOT projects improve safety?
INDOT projects will analyze traffic and crash data and be designed to the latest safety standards, including non-motorized enhancements compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Rehabilitation and replacement projects will improve the safety and longevity of aging state roads and bridges, minimizing potholes and the need for future repairs.
- How will INDOT projects advance Richmond and Wayne County?
The infrastructure improvements are expected to help transform the Richmond central business district and position Wayne County for future economic development and growth.