Indy Standard

State Representative Lindsay Patterson has introduced legislation aimed at improving safety at low water crossings in Indiana. The proposed bill, House Bill 1507, would enable local county road and bridge boards to undertake projects that enhance these crossings. The bill also seeks to allow the use of grants for funding such initiatives.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources describes low water crossings, or fords, as temporary bridges used primarily by construction vehicles to traverse smaller streams. However, these crossings are also utilized by passenger vehicles, which can be hazardous when water levels rise and potentially sweep cars away. Patterson's bill proposes measures such as installing warning signs and replacing inadequate road crossings with bridges.

"We've lost too many lives in Indiana due to the lack of clear warnings at low water crossings," said Patterson. "A simple sign marking the beginning and end of these crossings can go a long way in preventing accidents. This legislation is a commonsense solution that will save lives by making these dangerous areas more visible and safer for drivers."

Additionally, the bill mandates the Indiana Department of Transportation to provide information on potential funding sources from federal and private entities for low water crossing projects to county officials. It aims to expand the Community Crossings Matching Grant program, which allocates funds for infrastructure improvements, to include such projects. In 2024, Franklin County received over $1 million through this program.

House Bill 1507 is currently under consideration by the House Roads and Transportation Committee. More information about session and committee meetings can be found at iga.in.gov. Safety tips regarding stream, bridge, ford, and culvert crossings are available at in.gov/dnr.