Hobart board of works passes traffic plan for data center site
The Hobart Board of Public Works unanimously approved a traffic mitigation plan for the ongoing construction of Amazon's data center. The plan includes restriping 61st Avenue and installing temporary traffic signals to manage construction-related traffic. This measure aims to address and alleviate increased traffic flow due to workers and trucks accessing the site.
The Hobart Board of Public Works has unanimously approved a right-of-way permit for a traffic mitigation plan to support the ongoing construction of an Amazon data center. City Engineer Alex Metz explained that the plan focuses on managing increased traffic from workers and trucks on 61st Avenue.
The approved plan involves restriping 61st Avenue to create a dedicated right-turn lane for site access, establish a middle lane for eastbound traffic, and use the north side for westbound drivers. Additionally, two temporary traffic signals will be installed at the construction entrances on 61st Avenue and Arizona Street, an intersection identified with a low traffic rating of D.
Amazon Web Services conducted traffic studies for the site, which were verified by BF&S Civil Engineers. BF&S indicated they would continue to provide professional traffic engineering representation to Hobart and advise on potential roadway impacts, also recommending including the Indiana Department of Transportation in future discussions. Hobart Mayor Josh Huddlestun expressed support for the plan as a responsive step to mitigate anticipated traffic increases, while acknowledging the need for flexibility and adjustments throughout the construction phases.