The intersection crossing of the Monon Trail at 86th Street is one of the most dangerous pedestrian and bicyclist crossings in the city of Indianapolis, as noted by numerous crashes and injuries. This intersection is not just any crossroad; it's a bustling hub where more than one million trail users annually and an average of 35,000 vehicles daily converge. The current safety measures are insufficient to protect those who use this trail. Strong Towns Crash Analysis Studio January 2023: pointed out factors creating the dangers and made recommendations of short-term and long-term fixes for the safety of all who travel through the intersection. 

We are asking for action to remedy the impact of future crashes, injuries and death. Action items could include, but not limited to: 

• Raised crossing walkway 
• Corner bumpouts 
• Installation of pedestrian refuge in the center of 86th St.
• Upgrading signals to be black exterior and include reflective borders
• Install additional signage leading up to and at the intersection
• Paint on the roadway and intersection
• Gateway signage  
• Lower speed limit to 20 mph from Westfield Blvd to Nora Plaza

We, the people, want to work with the city of Indianapolis to ensure the Monon Trail continues to be a safe and accessible for all people and lives up to its designation as a Rails-to-Trail Hall of Fame Trail 

Why is this important?

The 86th Street and Monon Trailway intersection continues to be a crash-prone crossing for pedestrians and bicyclists. This specific intersection has led to many near-misses, crashes, injuries and even deaths.

The loss we experienced is not an isolated case but a symptom of a larger problem that needs immediate attention. We cannot afford any more losses due to inadequate safety measures at this intersection.

Community Support: Letter of Support for a Tactical Urbanism Project and Tunnel/Bridge, signed by numerous community organizations, IndyGo Letter of Support, Sunset Heights Neighborhood Association Letter of Support.

Draft Concept of Tactical Urbanism Project 

 

 

 

 

 

Support of Tactical Urbanism Project (to be launched in 2024 after we receive the final permit from Indianapolis Department of Public Works / Department of Business and Neighborhood Services)

 

Funding Support (so far) for Tactical Urbanism Project: 

• $10,000 Grant from Indiana State Department of Health
• $ 5,000 Grant from CIBA Foundation

The signers of this petition are asking for:

• Support for a tactical urbanism project in 2024
• More permanent interim intersection changes such as signage and traffic calming measures, even redesigning the intersection entirely
• The ultimate solution of a bridge or tunnel can be built. The addition of a bridge or tunnel at this intersection will allow the Monon to be safe and accessible to all residents

By signing this petition, you are supporting safer roads for all - pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists alike - in our community. Let us ensure no other family has to endure such avoidable tragedies again.

If you are interested in getting involved in the Tactical Urbanism and Art in the Right-of-Way projects at Monon & 86th (Winter-Fall 2024), please sign up here: https://forms.gle/V9DBXQWmzKwPmM9WA