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Shaping Our Streets: The Future of 29th & 30th Starts Now

  • Evelyn Blunt
  • Mar 17
  • 2 min read
30th Street Bridge, Indianapolis, IN
30th Street Bridge, Indianapolis, IN

Neighbors, our landscape is shifting. For years, we’ve watched the 29th and 30th Street corridors serve as high-speed cut-throughs, prioritizing transit efficiency over the safety of the people who actually live, play, and grow here. That era is ending, but the success of this transition depends on us staying informed and engaged.


A Bridge Reunited, A Community Connected

After four years of patience, detours, and advocacy, the 30th Street Bridge over the White River is officially back. As of March 10, 2026, this $20 million investment has restored a vital artery connecting our neighborhoods to Riverside Park.


This isn't just about concrete and limestone; it’s about reclaiming a historic landmark that was nearly lost to time. While crews will be on-site through May for final landscaping, the gates are open. This bridge belongs to the Near Northwest. Again, let’s use it to reconnect with our neighbors across the river.


The Great Conversion: 29th & 30th Go Two-Way

While the bridge is a "win", we can celebrate now, the work on our streets is just hitting its stride. The conversion of 29th and 30th Streets from one-way "drag strips" to two-way neighborhood streets is officially underway.


  • The Vision: Slower traffic, safer crossings for our children, and ADA-compliant curbs that ensure everyone in our community can navigate our sidewalks.


  • The Reality: We are currently in the thick of a multi-year construction phase (slated through Q3 2027). This means orange barrels, temporary noise, and shifting traffic patterns.

Why this matters: A two-way street is more than a traffic change; it’s a proven method to revitalize local business and improve the "porch-life" quality of our residential blocks.

A Clarion Call: Your Voice is the Blueprint

Infrastructure is often done for a community, but in the Near Northwest, it must be done with us. We cannot afford to be passive observers while $20+ million is spent on our doorstep.


How to Take Action Today:


  1. Report the Gaps: As construction progresses, pay attention to the details. Are the new curb ramps truly accessible? Is the signage clear? Use the RequestIndy app or contact our office to report issues immediately.

  2. Support Local: Construction is hard on our neighborhood businesses. Make a conscious effort to visit shops along the 29th and 30th corridors. Don't let the orange barrels deter you from supporting your neighbors.

  3. Stay Vocal: Attend our next community meeting. We will discuss how these changes affect street parking and residential safety.


This is our neighborhood. Let’s make sure its future reflects our hearts.

 
 
 

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