Official Roundup: City Infrastructure Updates and Public Safety Notices for March 7

Public Health and Safety Advisories

The Indianapolis Office of Public Health and Safety (OPHS) continues its Winter Contingency Plan, which remains in full effect through March 31, 2026. This initiative, managed in collaboration with the Indianapolis Continuum of Care, provides essential sheltering options and emergency resources for individuals experiencing homelessness during periods of severe or adverse winter weather. The city maintains a collated map of available resources for those requiring immediate shelter, including dedicated spaces at the Men’s Overflow Shelter and the Family Shelter.

In public health news, the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) has issued an advisory regarding a statewide pertussis (whooping cough) survey. The Infectious Disease Epidemiology & Prevention Division is currently conducting a brief assessment to gather data on the impact of the illness within the community. Residents are encouraged to participate in the ten-minute survey to assist state health officials in refining prevention and response strategies for the 2026 season.

IndyGo Blue Line and Corridor Construction

Significant transit and roadway impacts remain active along the Washington Street corridor due to the ongoing construction of the Blue Line Bus Rapid Transit system. Commuters should be aware of the following official notices:

• Washington Street (Southeastern to State Avenue): Partial closures are in effect to facilitate the installation of new storm sewer trunk lines. Eastbound traffic is currently being detoured south on Southeastern Avenue and north on State Avenue. One westbound lane remains open to ensure access for local residents and businesses.
• Washington Street (Belmont to Harding Street): Construction in this zone has necessitated a detour for IndyGo Route 8. Buses are currently utilizing North White River Parkway, Michigan Street, and Belmont Avenue. Several bus stops have been temporarily closed, with replacement stops established at the intersections of Washington and Harding and Washington and Belmont.
• Infrastructure Timeline: These closures are part of a three-month intensive construction phase that began in February. Motorists are advised to allow for extra travel time when traversing the downtown and near-eastside areas.

State Highway and Ramp Restrictions

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) has several long-term notices active for the Indianapolis metropolitan area. In Lawrence, the I-465 northbound entrance ramp from 56th Street and North Shadeland Avenue remains closed for total reconstruction; this closure is slated to continue through June 30, 2026. Additionally, long-term lane reductions and width restrictions are in effect at the I-65 and I-70 South Split to accommodate bridge work and pavement upgrades. Oversized loads are specifically restricted on these ramps due to width limits as low as 11 feet.

Seasonal Preparedness Notice

Emergency management officials remind the public that Indiana Severe Weather Preparedness Week officially begins tomorrow, March 8. Today serves as a final window for households to verify emergency kits and review safety protocols before the statewide tornado drill scheduled for Tuesday morning. Residents are urged to ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, such as NOAA weather radios and official local alert systems, as the region enters the peak spring storm season.