Heavy Congestion Expected on I-465 Northeast and US 31 as Major Projects Enter Final Phases

Morning Commute Overview

Commuters in the Circle City should prepare for significant travel impacts today, Tuesday, March 3, 2026. While the weather remains dry following yesterday’s minor snow system, major multi-year infrastructure projects are reaching critical milestones, resulting in several long-term ramp and lane closures across the metropolitan area. Early morning drivers may have also noticed increased activity near bridges and overpasses due to the total lunar eclipse that peaked just after 6:00 a.m. local time.

Major Highway Updates: Clear Path 465 and Level Up 31

The Clear Path 465 project on the city’s northeast side is now over 80% complete, with the final push toward a summer completion underway. Commuters using the I-465 and I-69 interchange should anticipate lane shifts and intermittent restrictions. Specifically, the ramp from Allisonville Road to eastbound I-465 remains restricted as crews work on the final bridge segments expected to open later this spring. Expect heavy backups during peak hours between the White River and Fall Creek.

On the north side, the Level Up 31 project continues to affect traffic between Indianapolis and Carmel. The southbound U.S. 31 ramp to 106th Street is currently closed and is not expected to reopen until later this spring. Additionally, motorists should note that the left through lane on northbound Meridian Street from 96th Street to the I-465 interchange remains closed. A reduced speed limit of 45 MPH is strictly enforced through these construction zones.

IndyGo Transit and Blue Line Construction

Public transit riders should be aware of significant detours related to the ongoing Blue Line Bus Rapid Transit construction. Washington Street is currently closed to through traffic between Southeastern and State avenues. Consequently, IndyGo Route 8 is utilizing a detour via Southeastern Avenue. Riders are also reminded that the new fare structure for 2026 is now in effect, with basic fares set at $2.75.

• Route 8 Detour: Buses are bypassing Washington Street between Belmont Avenue and Harding Street, using Michigan Street and North White River Parkway instead.
• Stop Closures: All stops along Washington Street between Southeastern and State avenues remain closed; temporary stops are located at Cruse Street and Southeastern Avenue.
• Red Line: Route 90 remains on detour near Fountain Square due to ongoing utility work on Beecher Street, with the Raymond Street platforms currently closed.

Downtown and Surface Street Alerts

Downtown travel remains restricted near the Indiana Convention Center expansion site. Capitol Avenue is closed to all vehicular traffic from Maryland Street to Georgia Street and will remain closed through the end of March. Illinois Street also sees restrictions from South Street to Georgia Street. Commuters are advised to use West Street or Delaware Street as primary north-south alternatives to avoid the convention district core. Work on the Union Station underpasses is also reaching its final phase, with full reopening expected by early April.