Indianapolis Public Notice: Infrastructure Projects and Health Advisories

Health Advisory: Hospital Visitor Restrictions Remain in Effect

The Marion County Public Health Department (MCPHD) continues to enforce temporary visitor restrictions across all major Indianapolis hospital systems to combat the seasonal surge of respiratory illnesses. This mandate, overseen by Chief Medical Officer Dr. Virginia Caine, follows elevated levels of flu, RSV, and COVID-19 detected in local wastewater and emergency department screenings. These restrictions are intended to protect vulnerable patient populations and healthcare staff during the peak winter viral season.

• Prohibited Visitors: All individuals under the age of 18 and any adults currently experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, or sore throat are barred from visiting patient wards.
• Affected Networks: These protocols apply to all Marion County facilities within the IU Health, Eskenazi Health, Community Health Network, Ascension St. Vincent, and Franciscan Health systems. Free masks remain available at all facility entrances.

Transit Alert: Blue Line Construction and Route 8 Adjustments

IndyGo has entered a significant phase of construction for the Blue Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor. As of February 2026, utility and storm sewer work is significantly impacting the Washington Street corridor. Residents are advised to plan for increased travel times and follow all posted detours.

• Washington Street Closure: Eastbound lanes on Washington Street are currently closed from Southeastern Avenue to State Avenue. This closure is necessary for the installation of major storm sewer trunk lines and is expected to persist through the coming months. Westbound access is maintained, but eastbound traffic is being detoured south to Southeastern Avenue.
• IndyGo Route 8: Due to active construction, Route 8 is operating on a modified schedule. Frequent adjustments are expected as work crews move between the 12 designated construction zones along the 24-mile corridor.

Infrastructure: Roadwork and Long-Term Restrictions

The Indianapolis Department of Public Works (DPW) and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) have several active infrastructure projects this weekend. Motorists should be aware of the following restrictions:

• I-65/I-70 South Split: A 11-foot width limit is currently in effect on the ramp from Northbound I-65 to Westbound I-70 (Mile Marker 110.1). This restriction will remain in place through the end of 2026 to facilitate ongoing bridge rehabilitation.
• Thoroughfare Drainage Improvements: Structural rehabilitation and drainage work continue on Brookside Parkway (from Nowland to Rural Street) and Washington Boulevard (from 29th to 40th Street). These projects aim to reduce localized flooding and improve pavement longevity.

Public Service: Waste Management and Community Reporting

The City of Indianapolis reminds residents that the transition to Lakeshore Recycling Services (LRS) for residential trash collection is fully in effect. This change impacts households formerly served by Republic Services or Waste Management. Residents must use city-issued 96-gallon carts for curbside pickup. For reporting missed collections, potholes, or street light outages, the RequestIndy portal remains available 24/7 via the city website and mobile application.

Upcoming Public Hearing: Metropolitan Development Commission

A public hearing for the Metropolitan Development Commission is scheduled for Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the City-County Building. Notable items on the docket include Resolution No. 2026-R-007, which authorizes expenditures for structural assessments and tunnel inspections at the Former Indiana Women's Prison property. Public testimony is welcome, and written objections may be filed with the Division of Planning prior to the hearing date.