Carmel is moving forward with a series of infrastructure projects this spring aimed at improving roadways, modernizing intersections, and enhancing pedestrian safety across the city.

City officials announced that work is already underway or beginning soon on multiple construction projects, ranging from full road reconstructions to bridge repairs and new pedestrian paths. The goal: to accommodate the city’s rapid growth while making roads safer and more efficient.

“Prioritizing the safety and efficiency of our transportation network is paramount,” said City Engineer Bradley Pease in a press release. “The current road and bridge projects are essential to meeting the evolving needs of Carmel.”

The city says construction timelines are being carefully planned to limit disruptions to residents and businesses. Here's a breakdown of what’s coming:

College Avenue Reconstruction

The first phase of the College Avenue Reconstruction is in progress, with a full closure at the intersection of 96th Street and College Avenue scheduled for May. This major corridor upgrade includes the installation of three roundabouts — at 96th Street, Carmel Gateway, and Pennsylvania Parkway — designed to ease congestion and increase pedestrian access in a growing commercial corridor.

Reconstruction on the section north of I-465 will begin this summer, continuing in alternating northbound and southbound phases through 2026. The project is one of the city’s most extensive roadway upgrades, targeting long-standing traffic flow issues.

West 96th Street Path

In an effort to expand multi-use connectivity, the city will construct a pedestrian and bike path along West 96th Street between Spring Mill Road and Ditch Road. This stretch on Carmel’s west side will require occasional closures in May due to crane operations. The path is expected to be completed by October and is intended to serve walkers, joggers, and cyclists alike.

Main Street Reconstruction

Main Street, from Old Meridian Street to Guilford Road, is scheduled for reconstruction beginning on or after May 27. Though the project will involve brief closures, city officials have committed to maintaining local access for residents and businesses. This section of Main Street is a key thoroughfare linking Carmel’s downtown with surrounding neighborhoods.

Raised Pedestrian Crosswalks

To boost pedestrian visibility and safety, Carmel will install raised crosswalks at several existing roundabouts along Gray Road, Towne Road, and Hazel Dell Parkway. These features are intended to calm traffic and improve walkability in suburban neighborhoods and near schools.

Bridge and Culvert Repairs

Several key bridge and culvert repairs will take place this season, resulting in full road closures and detours. These include:

• Clay Center Road at Elliott Creek
• East 126th Street over Cool Creek
• Westfield Boulevard near 109th Street

City officials emphasized that detours will be clearly marked to guide drivers through alternate routes while ensuring project areas remain safe for workers and passersby.

Looking Ahead

These construction efforts reflect Carmel’s continued investment in infrastructure modernization, sustainability, and long-term planning. The roundabouts alone are expected to significantly reduce traffic delays and accidents — part of the city’s broader strategy to be both car- and pedestrian-friendly.

While temporary closures may inconvenience some drivers, Pease noted the long-term benefits will be worth the wait. “The current road and bridge projects are essential to meeting the evolving needs of Carmel,” he said.

More updates and detailed maps will be available on the city’s website as each project progresses.

Originally reported by Ashley Fowler in WishTV.