Urban Indiana

Mid-States Corridor rolls forward with business sector support, community blowback

State and local agencies are pushing the gas on plans to forge a new highway in southern Indiana aimed at increasing connectivity to Indianapolis and nearby expressways.

The Mid-States Corridor has been a long-proposed idea to accelerate travel times from the industrial hubs of Jasper and Huntingburg, and has seen new life after renewed public and private sector pushes resulted in landmark studies for the project, despite significant community pushback questioning the project's motivations.

The first environmental study was completed in 2022, resulting in the selection of a preferred route out of five options. That path is 54 miles long, cutting through 12 counties and stretching from I-64/US 231 to I-69. It hugs the city of Japser and drops south to the east of the city and Huntingburg.

A second study is underway diving into refining the highway's path and solidifying plans to move forward.

Business leaders say the corridor would be a game changer when it comes to shipping and economic growth. Meanwhile, residents concerned with the project believe it's not necessary, saying it is propelled by the interests of major industries and does not have an adequate reason or goal to demolish houses and farmland.

More below:
https://www.insideindianabusiness.com/articles/mid-states-corridor-rolls-forward-with-business-sector-support-community-blowback