New pedestrian bridge coming to Monon Trail and 86th Street to enhance safety

INDIANAPOLIS — A pedestrian bridge is coming to 86th Street in an effort to enhance safety at one of the Monon Trail’s busiest crossings.

The Indianapolis Department of Public Works announced that a new pedestrian bridge will be installed at 86th Street near the Monon Trail to provide “walkers, runners, and bikers a safe way to cross without worrying about traffic.”

Indy DPW said the project is happening thanks to a $7 million commitment provided by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization. Construction on the bridge could take place toward the end of 2029.

86th Street splits the Monon Trail, sending pedestrians passing through down a sidewalk and through busy lanes of traffic on the crosswalk. According to previous reports, this has led to many safety concerns over the years after multiple bicyclists have been hit while attempting to use the Monon and the trail crossing at 86th Street.

Bicycle Garage Indy led a tactical urbanism project at the troubled intersection that featured the installation of flex posts to extend the curbs in June 2024. Only two weeks into the project, project leaders told FOX59/CBS4 that nine of the 13 flex posts had been knocked down by drivers.

“This is a big step toward making the trail easier to enjoy and keeping our community connected,” Indy DPW said.