INDIANAPOLIS -- The Indianapolis Department of Public Works has confirmed that the major project on the 30th Street Bridge over the White River has been delayed.
Indy DPW confirmed to FOX59/CBS4 Monday that construction on the 30th Street Bridge is projected to be completed by the end of 2025. Construction on the historic bridge has already been underway since Summer 2022 and was originally slated to be complete by the end of the second quarter of 2024.
The project was meant to provide improved safety features in the form of a reinforced concrete arch and a new bridge railing. Plans were also in place for the bridge's original limestone to be removed and reinstalled or replaced in dilapidated portions of the structure.
Indy DPW said the project additionally included plans to widen travel lanes, install new sidewalks, curbs and ADA ramps to make the area more accessible.
However, the project has been delayed due to "unforeseen existing conditions of the bridge", Indy DPW said.
"The bridge that takes 30th Street over the White River is one of the beautiful historic bridges that the City takes great pride in," said Corey Ohlenkamp, a public information officer with Indy DPW. "It has been delayed due to unforeseen existing conditions of the bridge, but our construction teams are dedicated to making sure the restoration work is done correctly."
Ohlenkamp added that delays tend to occur as construction crews make progress on various projects and uncover more issues that can sometimes lead to new problems.
"Unfortunately, when we start on projects like this, parts of the bridge not easily seen until construction begins can cause delays once they are uncovered. We are aiming to have the bridge completed by end of 2025," said Ohlenkamp.
DPW has also been busy with its 16th Street bridge project. The bridge is currently slated to reopen in Summer 2027, and the cost is projected to be more than $17 million.