Indigo proposes $7M mobility hub at 11135 East Washington Street in Indianapolis

On April 24, 2025, the Metropolitan Development Commission Hearing Examiner convened to discuss a significant proposal from Indigo, the public transportation agency for Indianapolis. The focus of the meeting was the establishment of a new mobility hub, part of the Blue Line transit project, located at 11135 East Washington Street in Cumberland, a small town within Indianapolis.

The proposed mobility hub represents a substantial investment of approximately $7 million, aimed at enhancing public transportation options in the area. This facility will serve as a transfer point for passengers using the Blue Line and other bus routes, facilitating easier connections between services. Unlike traditional bus stations, the hub is designed for quick transfers, with limited parking available primarily for Indigo employees and bus drivers.

The site spans nearly six acres and is zoned C4, which permits high-traffic commercial uses. Indigo representatives highlighted the hub's design, which includes a 900-square-foot building with restrooms and a break room for drivers, as well as shelters for passengers waiting for buses. The landscaping plan aims to enhance the site’s aesthetics and provide a buffer for nearby residential properties.

Support for the project was voiced by the Warren Township Development Association, which unanimously endorsed the proposal, citing its potential to improve the quality of life in the community. However, concerns were raised by local residents, particularly regarding noise pollution and the potential for increased homelessness in the area due to the bus operations. One resident expressed fears that the proximity of the hub to residential properties could negatively impact property values and lead to disturbances.

Despite these concerns, the staff recommended approval of the project, noting its alignment with the Cumberland comprehensive plan for commercial development. The hearing examiner is expected to consider both the support and opposition expressed during the meeting before making a decision on the proposal.

As the city continues to invest in its public transportation infrastructure, the outcome of this proposal will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for future developments in the region. The next steps will involve further deliberation by the commission, taking into account community feedback and the potential impacts on local residents.