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1. What does scope and alignment mean?

When we use the term ‘scope’, we are talking about all of the work and improvements that are expected to be completed as part of a project or even a group of projects.  The ‘alignment’ is where on the land a project is being proposed. An alignment is critical in order to develop a scope for a project.  But at the level of a study such as this, both are very fluid as we make some very high level assumptions for both in order to try and determine which project options should get prioritized to receive funding.

2. When might these projects take place?

The study speaks to timing for these projects primarily from the perspective of when traffic volumes are expected to reach a point where improvements are ‘warranted’.  In a broad sense, intersection improvements around the Quaker/Hadley intersection are justified by 2025.  Other improvements are spaced out in 10-year intervals from there.  All of the projects referenced in the study require additional steps be taken to set aside funding, select engineering consultants, and further define project scoping and impacts.  An example where these additional steps play a critical role is considering the proposed underpass of Quaker Boulevard.  While this improvement will require INDOT approval, the impacts to their interchange justify the Town planning for this improvement to be constructed earlier than what might be needed strictly from a traffic capacity benefit.

3. How does the Town of Plainfield and INDOT work together on the projects highlighted in these studies?

This study is the direct result of INDOT and the Town agreeing to the relinquishment of SR 267 and Avon Ave. by INDOT.  Plainfield agreed to accept the jurisdiction of these roadways in exchange for INDOT providing funding for some desirable improvements.  This study is the Town’s effort to best direct these funds where they will be most meaningful and timely.  Both INDOT and the Town recognize that the improvements will provide the most benefit if they are planned, and potentially constructed, together.

4. What are the impacts to local businesses in this area?

Building a new connection between Cambridge and Gateway will offer improved flexibility for patrons to access and enjoy Plainfield’s Hospitality District.  The report points out that there is still a level of uncertainty on how the added access points to Quaker Boulevard can be designed to work with INDOT’s new interchange, but these considerations are expected to play out as that design unfolds. The desire is to create improved connectivity for the interchange area that will help support mobility to our business partners. 

5. What are the impacts to the local residents in this area?

The recommended improvements are made as a response to expected increases in everyday traffic volumes.  They are designed to reduce the amount of wait times drivers will experience by providing more design options that allow for free-flowing movements as reduced speeds.  In addition, the improved connectivity and the illustrated extension of Gateway Drive around to connect to Center Street is planned to provide an alternative to Hadley Road for east-west travel.  

6. Will the public have more opportunities to give feedback?

Yes. With this Study, the Town worked with American Structurepoint to host 2 public input sessions as we were developing the various project options.  As these individual projects are funded, additional public input meetings will be scheduled as part of the more detailed scoping considerations.

7. How will we be notified about these projects once they’re approved?

One of the best methods to stay informed about what is happening is to review the Town Council agenda that is publicized twice a month. In addition to that, we encourage all residents to subscribe to our official social media accounts, check out our webpage, and read our monthly Plainfield Post newsletter. You can always reach out to Town Staff who are eager to share what they’re working on.  The Town’s Director of Transportation, Scott Singleton, can be emailed at ssingleton@townofplainfield.com or contacted by phone at (317) 903-8682.