Smarter Transportation Builds Stronger Communities
ProPEL Indy was a collaborative effort to reimagine the future of I-65 and I-70 within the I-465 loop.
study overview
ProPEL Indy was a unique opportunity for central Indiana residents, commuters, businesses, and neighborhoods to envision the future of our interstates. The study resulted in a wide range of reasonable alternatives for INDOT to consider for development of future projects on I-65 and I-70 in Indianapolis. These alternatives will require further analysis to determine both feasibility and effectiveness in meeting transportation needs.
The study concluded on December 15, 2025, with the release of the ProPEL Indy PEL Study Report, which summarized and documented planning efforts from start to finish. You can view the full report here.
Study limits
The ProPEL Indy study limits included approximately 11 miles of I-65, 14 miles of I-70, and 1 mile where I-65 and I-70 overlap. As an organizational tool, the study limits were represented into the following spokes:
- 65 spoke;
- 65/70 Downtown spoke;
- 70 West spoke;
- 70 East spoke.
The study limits extended slightly beyond I-465 and the I-65/I-70 South Split interchange to consider the potential influence of those system interchanges. The recently completed I-65/I-70 North Split was excluded from the study limits.
ProPEL Indy’s study area did overlap with the I-65 Safety & Efficiency project on the southeast side of Indianapolis. The overlap with I-65 Safety & Efficiency extends from north of Fletcher Ave on I-65/I-70 to the South Split interchange ending south of Morris Street along I-65. The remainder of the I-65 Safety & Efficiency project area, which extends south on I-65 to I-465 is excluded from the study limits.
ProPEL Indy is a future-focused study, which means the overlap in the study area does not impact ProPEL Indy’s ability to identify needs and develop options for future improvements in the overlapping area.
Study Schedule
ProPEL Indy Pillars
In this pillar, the study team is assessing transportation systems that consider quality of life and livability factors. We can promote vibrant communities by considering factors such as accessibility, aesthetics, functional public spaces, noise and pollution mitigation. This pillar is focusing on prioritizing the overall well-being and quality of life for Indy residents.
With the ProPEL Indy study, we are diving deep into our transportation system, looking for interstate improvements that open and support economic opportunities for business at every scale.
Indiana is called the Crossroads of America for a reason. As Hoosiers, we value safe, reliable, and efficient infrastructure to get us to work, promote commerce, and provide a quality of life we expect. This pillar is focusing on interstate improvements while considering safety, connectivity, and mobility options.
Equity is not a one-size-fits-all solution. This pillar is focusing on interstate improvements that reduce inequality and meet the needs of the adjacent communities.