INDIANAPOLIS — Construction will begin later this spring on a 5-mile stretch of I-65 between I-465 and the south split as the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) tries to relieve congestion during peak travel times. Project Overview via INDOT The agency plans to do that by adding an additional lane on both sides of the interstate, bumping each up from three lanes to four. From Keystone Avenue to Raymond Street, contractors will widen the interstate using the existing inside shoulder while the expansion will happen on the outside shoulder from I-465 to Keystone. When construction begins this year, the interstate will be reduced to two lanes with a few full closures on the weekends. The dates of those closures haven't been finalized. That expansion will extend into the south split with INDOT adding an extra lane onto the ramp that continues on I-65. That additional lane will end at the Washington Street exit. INDOT will also expand the bridges along the interstate to accommodate the additional lane. As part of those improvements, the agency will build new sidewalks either under or over the interstate. "While we’re in the area, we wanted to make those improvements," Natalie Garrett with INDOT said. "Allowing for improved pedestrian travel in and around the area and the communities that surround I-65." One of the bridges getting some major rehab is the Morris/Prospect Street bridge that runs over I-65. That section of the street will be closed for 30 days as INDOT expands the sidewalk. An exact date for the closure hasn't been announced. The longest and most disruptive closure will be the Hanna Avenue bridge, which will be closed for an entire year. The bridge is being fully reconstructed, and sidewalks will be added on both sides. I-65 Lane ExpansionAdditional lane into South SplitHanna Avenue Bridge INDOT said the improvements will extend the life of the aging interstate, which was constructed decades ago. Studies are ongoing about how to modernize the interstate inside the I-465 loop, but for now, the agency is maintaining the current infrastructure. "That is the goal. A safer, smoother commute for those that travel on I-65," Garrett said. You can find more information on the project here. ...read more read less