Indiana interstate construction costs jumped to $46M per centerline mile in FY2026, INDOT data show

Indiana Capital Chronicle reported that Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) figures show the state spent an average of $46 million to construct a centerline mile of interstate in the 2026 state fiscal year (the fiscal year ended in June 2026). The report said that average is up nearly 450% from the $8.4 million average recorded in fiscal year 2015 and that rising material costs, inflation, supply-chain shortages, the pandemic and competing demand from data centers are among cited causes (comments attributed to Brian Gould and INDOT spokeswoman Natalie Garrett).

The article says INDOT’s FY2026 average included two complicated projects — Revive I-70 in Wayne County and Safer Drive 65 in Scott and Clark counties — and notes INDOT bundles projects, competitively bids work, uses 20-year asset-management plans and alternative delivery methods that involve contractors early. INDOT told the outlet that costs reflect lane replacements and additions, widened and rebuilt shoulders, barrier walls and guardrails, traffic and drainage control, materials, labor and other items.

Report a correction · Editorial standards · Our source directory

BusinessIndy examines this development and its implications for Indiana businesses and communities using the linked sources.