The group heading up the I-69 bridge project has announced some "refinements" to its 3 proposals.
The I-69 Ohio River Crossing Project Team says the changes reflect public input gathered from surveys, community conversations, and a booth at Henderson's Tri-Fest in April.
The two "west alternatives" have been adjusted to reduce impacts to homes, businesses, and a cemetery along and near the Henderson Strip.
A change to the central alternative is designed to improve access to businesses along the strip and on U.S. 60.
Dan Prevost is the environmental lead for the project.
"Trying to construct a new interstate in a very developed area would have effects on both businesses and residents so there's certainly concern we're hearing regarding that," Prevost says. "The other was really the potential for that Central Alternative 1 allignment to serve effectively as a bypass of that business district."
I-69 ORX Spokeswoman Mindy Peterson says many people want to see at least one of the Twin Bridges remain, possibly as a toll-free alternative.
"We're hearing from a lot of folks," Peterson says. "They do of course support an I-69 bridge but they are very interested in a toll-free alternative, if that is possible, a toll-free option for them. That's one of the things that we heard from the community conversation."
Peterson said tolling levels would be decided after the group makes its "record of decision" by fall 2019.
Updates to West Alternative 1
The connection between US 41 and US 60 has been modified to reduce impacts to residences and businesses.
A retaining wall has been added to avoid impacts to a small cemetery within the Merrill Place development.
Updates to West Alternative 2
The intersection of Elm Street and Watson Lane has been modified to improve safety and access in the interchange area.
The connection between US 41 and US 60 has been modified to reduce impacts to residences and businesses.
A retaining wall has been added to avoid impacts to a small cemetery within the Merrill Place development.
Updates to Central Alternative 1
The connection between I-69 and US 41 has been modified to improve access to US 60 and the commercial strip.
