City officials in Wabash, Indiana, have taken over a section of State Road 15 from INDOT in an effort to reduce semi-truck traffic in the downtown area. The change aims to enhance safety and improve the quality of life for residents and business owners.
Why the Change Was Necessary
Mayor Scott Long emphasized the need for action, citing ongoing issues caused by heavy truck traffic. “Our decorative lights on light poles have been hit before, we’ve had issues with pedestrian sign poles being knocked over,” Long explained. He also noted that some truck drivers have gone the wrong way on one-way streets, further increasing safety concerns.
City officials determined that rerouting semi-trucks was the best solution. The newly acquired portion of S.R. 15 will no longer allow through semi-truck traffic, addressing longstanding concerns from business owners and residents.
Business Owners and Public Safety Concerns
With Wabash’s growth, more people are spending time downtown, making safety a top priority. Long pointed out that semi-truck traffic does not pause for events, even when thousands of people gather downtown.
- Business owners have expressed worries about truck congestion affecting pedestrian safety.
- Semi-trucks navigating tight streets create hazards, especially during high-foot-traffic events.
- Redirecting truck traffic will help foster a more pedestrian-friendly environment.
The New Semi-Truck Route
A different route for semis will officially take effect on March 7. While most through-trucks will be redirected, drivers making local deliveries will still have access to downtown Wabash.
Long hopes this move will encourage more people to live in the city while ensuring that downtown remains a safe, welcoming space. “We anticipate new housing developments and more people moving here, so keeping downtown safe is critical,” he said.
