By Andi Anderson
State and local leaders recently celebrated the which opened of Indiana's new State Road 249 bridge, which will significantly boost ocean cargo capacity at the Lake Michigan port.
This newly completed bridge, opening November 6, is part of a $35.4 million multi-year INDOT project aimed at doubling capacity on the only public road connecting Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor to the Greater Chicago and Northern Indiana markets.
“This bridge is a critical connector for global trade,” said Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock. “Ports require robust multimodal connections, and this new entrance will double our port’s capacity to handle critical ocean shipments. We have 17 ship berths and storage for 250 railcars, but only one truck lane entering the port. We are extremely grateful to Governor Holcomb, Commissioner Smith, and the entire INDOT team for providing a critical piece of infrastructure that will support future growth for this port and our state economy.”
INDOT and Superior Construction will begin rebuilding the older bridge structure now that the new bridge is complete. Upon project completion in 2026, State Road 249 will offer four lanes of access to the port, replacing the two-lane entry that has been in place since 1970.
“State Road 249 is vital to the safe and expedited movement of people and commerce between the port and our state highway system,” said INDOT Commissioner Michael Smith. “The bridge handles hundreds of thousands of trucks annually carrying heavy, high-value cargos such as steel, chemicals, and ag products. Meanwhile, 30 feet below, critical rail lines carry passengers and freight throughout northern Indiana. INDOT is proud to play a central role in the port's growth and to support Indiana’s global connections.”
Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor, contributing $4.6 billion in economic activity and supporting 28,000 jobs, has recently undertaken $77 million in port improvements, including new berths, railyards, and warehouses, positioning it for expanded operations and improved environmental impact by reducing congestion and idling time.
Photo Credit: istock-jmichl
Categories: Indiana, Equipment & Machinery