Cyclists want bridge built over dangerous intersection

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Bicycle Garage Indy is launching a citizens’ study to encourage the city to build a pedestrian bridge over East 86th Street and the Monon trail. Those who participate are asked to record video of any negative experiences at the intersection.

“I was there on Wednesday night, several of the volunteers were out and I crossed it and it’s one of those where you have to be on high alert,” said Connie Szabo Schmucker, director of advocacy for Bicycle Garage Indy.

A similar survey was done by advocates in Chicago.

“They did a traffic study for a day that documented what went on at that intersection, Lakeshore Drive and Grant Park and the lake,” Schmucker said.

Former Bicycle Garage Indy employee Frank Radaker was struck and killed by a vehicle at this intersection last fall.

The Monon Trail was designed to jog to the east slightly along the 86th Street corridor, leading users to cross under a traffic light (at the entrance to Nora Commons) as opposed to some kind of mid-block crossing which would provide less protection. There is no dead end along the trail, nor is there a parking lot involved. 

The Indianapolis Department of Public Works estimates the bridge would cost $10 million to $12 million.

“If you get a federal grant, the grant would pay for 80% of it,” Schmucker said.

The survey runs until July 19. Go online to participate.