Indy Standard

State Representative Matt Hostettler has proposed a bill to secure additional funding for roadside mowing along U.S. 41 in Indiana. The legislation aims to allocate resources to the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) for maintaining the highway stretch from the Vanderburgh County-Gibson County line to the Knox County-Sullivan County line.

"Proper roadside maintenance is essential for the safety and appearance of our state highways," Hostettler stated. "This bill would ensure that U.S. 41, a major route in southern Indiana, remains well-maintained, improving visibility for drivers and contributing to safer travel."

According to data from the National Motor Vehicle Crash Causation Survey, there were approximately 43,780 critical crashes reported in 2022 due to roadway and atmospheric conditions. House Bill 1346 proposes dedicated funding for mowing along this section of U.S. 41.

Hostettler emphasized that this initiative would help INDOT maintain clear sightlines and enhance driving safety while allowing funds previously used for mowing to be redirected towards other infrastructure projects.

"As a resident of Gibson County who travels on a daily basis along U.S. 41, I've seen firsthand how important it is to make sure that stretch of highway is well-kept," Hostettler remarked. "By supporting more frequent roadside mowing, we would ensure that drivers can navigate the highway safely, especially in areas where proper visibility is crucial."

The proposal does not alter INDOT's current mowing guidelines, which involve different frequencies depending on whether areas are urban or rural. Special considerations are made for environmentally sensitive zones.

House Bill 1346 has been sent to the House Roads and Transportation Committee for further deliberation. Additional information about session and committee meetings can be accessed at iga.in.gov.