I-65 to be widened in Lake County

Lake County’s Interstate 65 will be widened due to heavy traffic.

The interstate will be expanded to include three lanes in both directions between Merrillville south to State Road 2, or Exit 240, located by Lowell.

This announcement is just the first step in the governor’s highway program titled "Major Moves 2020." This program is designed to fast track the rehabilitation and widening of highways that carry heavy traffic throughout Indiana.

On Dec. 17, the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) will request approval from the State Budget Committee. INDOT intends to use $70 million from the Major Moves 2020 program to complete the I-65 project. INDOT will also publish a request for designer and contractor qualifications for the project.

“As Governor, I’ve set out to ensure that Indiana remains the Crossroads of America, and today’s announcement to expand Interstate 65 is another positive step in our efforts to ensure that our transportation infrastructure can support the economic and employment growth our state has seen over the last decade," Indiana Gov. Mike Pence said. “Hoosiers can rest assured that my administration will continue to prioritize our roads and bridges in a responsible and aggressive manner.”