Studies

Blue Rapid Transit Line study

In 2013, Indy Connect conducted a more comprehensive analysis of the Blue Line. This study adds significant detail to the work that was already done as part of the earlier Indy Connect planning process and further prepared the region to apply for federal funding to construct the project through the Federal Transit Administration at the appropriate time.
 
The Blue Line is 26 miles long and extends from Plainfield in the West to Cumberland in the East and connects to key destinations including the Indianapolis International Airport, the Central State Hospital Site, the Indianapolis Zoo and White River State Park, Downtown Indianapolis, the Near East Side, Irvington, and Washington Square Mall.  Today, the Blue Line corridor is one of the most heavily traveled corridors in the region; IndyGo's Route 8 along Washington Street is the best performing route in the region's current bus system.

Process

The Alternatives Analysis study provided recommendations for the Blue Line’s vehicle type, route, station locations, and operating features.  Following this initial planning process, the study will proceed into phases that include a federally mandated environmental review, engineering and design, and finally construction and operation. 

Recommended Vehicle Type

An evaluation of ridership estimates, right-of-way constraints, operating characteristics (such as travel time benefits), and capital costs indicated that Bus Rapid Transit is the most suitable vehicle type for the Blue Line. Light rail, streetcars, and commuter rail are not being recommended due to high costs, service issues or right-of-way constraints.    

The Route

Washington Street is the recommended route for the 26-mile corridor based on its directness and the general absence of parallel routes.  Existing ridership on IndyGo Route 8 (Washington Street) is already the highest in the IndyGo system.  In addition to being served by the Blue Line, the Indianapolis International Airport will be served by express bus from the terminal to downtown.

Station Opportunities

Recommended station locations reflect a strength for future development potential, as well as highest demand for service, based on the amount of residential, employment, attraction, educational, or health facilities located within 1/4-1/2 mile of the identified intersections.   

In addition, preliminary station design concepts have been created to help the community visualize how a potential station may function in certain areas.  The stations are intended to include sustainable, durable materials; have modular components to enable growth for special events or over time as demand increases; include amenities like seating, paying for your ticket at the station instead of on the vehicle, and real-time arrival information among others; and would vary in size to fit the context of the station area.