The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) LaPorte District are developing plans for the proposed SR 10 and I-65 interchange improvement (Des. No. 2000020) located at the interchange of SR 10 and I-65 in DeMotte, Jasper County, Indiana. The project extends along SR 10, approximately 0.25 mile west and 0.20 mile east of I-65. The limits also extend approximately 0.05 mile north and south along the northbound and southbound ramp junctions.

 

The purpose of this project is to reduce the number of conflict points at the SR 10 and I-65 interchange, as well as to improve the operating conditions at both the southbound and northbound ramp junctions of the SR 10 and I-65 interchange by increasing the projected design year (2046) level of service (LOS) to D or better. The need for the project is evidenced by the number of existing conflict points (25) at the SR 10 and I-65 interchange. Conflict points are potential areas where the paths of motorists’ merge, cross, or otherwise come in close proximity to one another. Additionally, the need is also evidenced by the projected design year (2046) LOS of F (“unacceptable”) at the southbound and northbound I-65 ramp junctions of the interchange. LOS is a scale (A through F) which classifies the operating condition of roads. In general, the operating conditions of intersections are considered to be “acceptable” if found to operate at LOS D or better.

 

The project proposes to convert each of the two existing ramp junctions at the interchange of SR 10 and I-65 to single-lane roundabouts. The typical section of the roundabout approaches along SR 10 will consist of two, 12-foot wide travel lanes (one in each direction) separated by a 2 to 12-foot wide variable raised median. The typical section of each I-65 on/off ramp junction will consist of one 16-foot wide travel lane. The typical section of the roundabout will consist of an 18-foot wide single lane, circulatory roadway with curb and gutter, a 92-foot wide center island, and a 16-foot wide truck apron. The new roundabouts will require pavement removal and reconstruction, which will consist of full depth Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) patching, replacement of pavement markings, and removal of overhead signs. Curb and gutter will be installed and the existing guardrail within the project area will be removed and replaced to fit the roundabouts. Additionally, new permanent lighting and riprap drainage turnouts will be installed throughout the project area. No work will occur to the existing SR 10 bridge over I-65.

 

The proposed construction of this project will occur within the existing right-of-way. No permanent or temporary right-of-way will be required for this project. The proposed project will not result in the relocation of businesses, residences, or farms along the project corridor.

 

The maintenance of traffic (MOT) plan will include a full closure of SR 10 between the southbound and northbound ramp junctions with detour routes. The southbound and northbound on and off-ramps will remain open during construction in a temporary right-in/right-out (RIRO) configuration. However, in order to cross I-65 along SR 10, traffic traveling northbound on I-65 or westbound on SR 10 will be detoured along I-65 northbound for approximately 11 miles to cross at the SR 2 over I-65 interchange, then directed south along I-65 back to SR 10. The northbound detour will be a total of 22 miles with an additional travel time of approximately 30 minutes. Traffic traveling southbound on I-65 or eastbound on SR 10 will be detoured along I-65 southbound for approximately 10 miles to cross at the SR 14 over I-65 interchange, then directed north along I-65 back to SR 10. The southbound detour will be a total of 20 miles with an additional travel time of approximately 25 minutes. Emergency vehicle access to I-65 will be maintained by completing a U-turn at the median breaks on either side of I-65. The MOT is scheduled to be in place for approximately nine months. Construction is anticipated to begin Spring 2026. Access to all properties will be maintained during construction. Project stakeholders including local school corporations(s) and emergency services will be notified of potential closures and/or detours prior to construction.

 

The cost associated with this project is approximately $4,222,000, which includes design and construction costs. Both federal and state funding will be used.

 

The INDOT has determined this project falls within the guidelines of a Categorical Exclusion (CE) Level 1 environmental document. Preliminary design plans, along with the CE, are available for review at the following in-person locations:

 

a. Merrillville Branch of the Lake County Public Library, 1919 West 81st Avenue, Merrillville, IN 46410

b. INDOT LaPorte District, 315 East Boyd Boulevard, LaPorte, IN 46350