There are two bills up for a vote, one in the House and one in the Senate, this Thursday. Please contact your state legislators by COB today, Wednesday, January 24! See the information below.

SB 52, prohibition on use of dedicated lanes, authored by Sen. Aaron Freeman (R-Indianapolis), would prohibit IndyGo from using dedicated lanes for the Blue Line project. Passage of this bill into law would effectively kill the Blue Line Project. The construction of the Blue Line, with an estimated cost of $370 million, aims to replace Route 8—the second most frequently used route after the Red Line. The Blue Line is designed to span approximately 25 miles from east to west along Washington Street, connecting Cumberland and the Indianapolis International Airport. The route utilizes I-70 west of Holt Road in its path. AIA Indiana is opposed to SB 52. 

Please contact your state senator and ask them to oppose SB 52.

State Senate Phone - 800/382-9467

Email/Find Your Legislator - CLICK HERE

Transit-oriented development, or TOD, embodies the creation of integrated urban spaces that seamlessly bring together people, activities, buildings, and public areas. These spaces prioritize convenient walking and cycling connections, coupled with efficient transit services that extend throughout the city. TOD projects inherently enhance transit options on multiple fronts. The residential facets of such developments offer residents convenient access to Bus Rapid Transit, while the commercial aspects generate employment opportunities easily accessible to those relying on public transportation.

The evident impact of increased TOD investments is exemplified by the IndyGo Red Line, with ongoing and planned projects demonstrating a commitment to this urban development approach. The Red Line has resulted in over $700 million in economic development including over 600 housing units. However, the passage of SB 52 poses a threat to the continuation of TOD initiatives along the proposed routes. AIA Indiana emphasizes the importance of considering the detrimental consequences for future TOD projects should SB 52 be enacted.

Also, IndyGo is in the final stages of designing the Blue Line, and dedicated lanes are integral to that design. Construction is slated to start net year, with millions of dollars from federal, state, and local stakeholders already committed. SB 52 risks killing the entire project and abandoning millions of dollars in federal infrastructure investment.

HB 1376, election day for school referenda, authored by Rep. Robert Behning (R-Indianapolis), provides that a local public question concerning certain education matters, including a school referendum tax levy and school safety referendum tax levy, may be placed on the ballot only at a general election or municipal general election. AIA Indiana opposes HB 1376.

Please contact your state representative and ask them to oppose HB 1376. 

House of Representatives Phone - 317/232-9600

Email/Find Your Legislator - CLICK HERE

Supporters of the proposed legislation emphasize the crucial need to boost voter engagement, particularly in matters pertaining to school referendums. Those opposing HB 1376 express apprehensions regarding its potential impact on local decision-making processes and the capacity of school authorities to promptly address budgetary and infrastructural requirements.

If the bill is passed into law, taxpayers will bear higher expenses for vital school construction renovations and new facilities, as the legislation will impede a swift response to these needs. For instance, simultaneous bidding and execution of necessary school construction projects will lead to increased costs for taxpayers. Additionally, the delays caused by HB 1376 may result in deferred maintenance, escalating overall expenses for Hoosier taxpayers. This could also lead to many students enduring substandard learning environments unnecessarily.

Do not hesitate to contact AIA Indiana Executive Director Jason Shelley, Hon. AIA if you have any questions regarding the 2024 state legislative session.