Indianapolis Completed Shelby Street Drainage Project

The $14 million infrastructure upgrade finished six months ahead of schedule to improve local water management.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Openings & Closings

A rain garden median with native plants sits between a street bike path and a drainage curb inlet in an urban neighborhood. — The Indianapolis Department of Public Works has finished a $14 million drainage project on Shelby Street, opening the thoroughfare after early completion. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Indianapolis Department of Public Works has concluded a $14 million drainage project in the Fountain Square neighborhood. The upgrades, which include a new storm sewer system, resulted in the reopening of Shelby Street last week.

Why it matters

The project serves to alleviate pressure on the city's combined sewer system during periods of heavy rain. By upgrading this infrastructure, the city aims to better manage high water events that impact local neighborhoods.

The $14 million drainage initiative finished six months ahead of schedule. Crews installed a comprehensive storm sewer system paired with landscaped rain garden medians to filter water.

The players

Indianapolis Department of Public Works

This local government agency oversees the design, construction, and maintenance of the city's infrastructure and public drainage systems.

The details

The early completion of the work was made possible through a new delivery system and improved coordination with local utility companies. Beyond drainage, the addition of rain garden medians provides residents with a protected cycle track along the thoroughfare.

Last week: Shelby Street reopened to traffic.
Six months ago: Construction work began on the infrastructure project.

Market Landscape

This project follows a pattern set by federal standards that mandate municipal improvements to aging combined sewer systems. The initiative reflects a broader push to integrate sustainable, nature-based drainage solutions into standard urban civil engineering projects.

Commuters and residents in Fountain Square can now access Shelby Street following its reopening last week. Additionally, the new protected cycle track provides cyclists with a safer transit option through the area.

The takeaway

The successful early completion of this project demonstrates the efficiency gains possible through better inter-agency utility coordination. Residents in urban areas should expect continued infrastructure upgrades as cities work to modernize drainage to meet current environmental demands.