Commission authorizes design contract for 4th and 5th Avenue two‑way conversion

The Gary Redevelopment Commission approved Resolution 77-36 to authorize a contract with American StructurePoint for design work related to converting 4th and 5th Avenue from one-way to two-way operation. "American Structure Point will be designing a 3 way, roadway, traffic signal, and environmental design for 4th And 5th Avenue," Director Harris said, describing the firm’s scope.

Staff and commissioners framed the conversion as a long-planned effort — the city has contemplated addressing the one-way configuration for roughly 15 years — intended to calm traffic, improve downtown walkability and reconfigure formal truck routes. Director Harris said the goal is to have engineering designs in place so the conversion can begin in the first quarter of 2027 and to coordinate submittals with INDOT.

Commissioners moved and seconded the resolution and approved it by roll call (three yes votes). The resolution was presented as a design-phase authorization; any construction contract or right-of-way acquisitions would come back to the commission for separate action.