Hanna Street, a major thoroughfare in south Indianapolis, will be closed to traffic until Tuesday, January 9, 2024, as part of a sewer relocation project by Citizens Energy Group. The closure affects the stretch of Hanna Street between East Street and Madison Avenue, where crews are working to move a sanitary sewer line to make way for the future expansion of I-465.

Impact of the Closure on Commuters and Residents

The closure of Hanna Street, which began on December 27, 2023, has caused inconvenience and frustration for many commuters and residents who use the road daily. Hanna Street is a busy route that connects the south side of the city with downtown and the interstate system. According to the Indiana Department of Transportation, Hanna Street carries about 15,000 vehicles per day.

Some drivers have expressed their dissatisfaction with the lack of signage and communication about the closure and the detour routes. Others have complained about the increased traffic and delays on the alternative roads, such as East Street, Madison Avenue, and Southport Road.

Residents who live along Hanna Street have also faced challenges due to the closure. Some have reported difficulty accessing their driveways and parking spaces, as well as receiving mail and garbage collection services. Some have also expressed concern about the safety and noise of the construction work, especially at night.

Purpose and Progress of the Sewer Relocation Project

The sewer relocation project is part of a larger plan by Citizens Energy Group to upgrade and modernize the city’s sewer system. The project involves moving a 36-inch sanitary sewer line that runs under Hanna Street to a new location under the railroad tracks parallel to the road. The new location will allow for the future expansion of I-465, which is expected to begin in 2025.

According to Citizens Energy Group, the project is necessary to prevent potential damage and disruption to the sewer line and service during the interstate construction. The project will also improve the reliability and capacity of the sewer system, which serves about 20,000 customers in the area.

The project is estimated to cost $4.5 million and take about six weeks to complete. As of January 3, 2024, the project is about 50% done, according to Citizens Energy Group spokesperson Laura O’Brien. She said that the project is on schedule and that the closure of Hanna Street is expected to end by January 9, 2024, weather permitting.

Tips and Advice for Drivers and Residents

Citizens Energy Group and the Indiana Department of Transportation have provided some tips and advice for drivers and residents affected by the closure of Hanna Street. They include:

• Plan ahead and allow extra time for travel. Check the traffic conditions and detour routes before leaving home or work. Use online tools such as INDOT’s TrafficWise or Google Maps to find the best route and avoid congestion.
• Follow the posted detour signs and directions. For north-south travel, use Meridian Street/SR 135 or Madison Avenue. For east-west travel, use Southport Road or Epler Avenue. Do not use local streets or cut through neighborhoods, as they are not designed to handle high volumes of traffic.
• Be patient and courteous. Drive with caution and obey the speed limits and traffic signals. Watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and construction workers. Do not block driveways or intersections. Respect the residents and businesses along the detour routes and the construction zone.
• Stay informed and updated. Visit the Citizens Energy Group website or call 317-924-3311 for more information about the sewer relocation project and its status. Visit the [INDOT website] or call 855-463-6848 for more information about the I-465 expansion project and its impact on the roads.