Skip to main content
Indiana Harbor and Canal
Dredging and Disposal Project

Traffic and Bridge Operations

The Phase 2 CDF dike expansion was completed in June 2024. The project expanded the CDF exterior dikes by 11 feet to maintain sufficient storage capacity for the intended project life, consistent with the original project authorization and plan. Dredging operations occurred from September to November 2024.
Map showing bridge detours noted in the text

Bridge Detours

Dredging operations require that bridges open to allow barges to transport dredged materials to the CDF. This may impact vehicle traffic during dredging.

When driving on Indianapolis Blvd and the bridge is up, we recommend that you turn on one of the following streets:

  • Columbus Dr (141st St)
  • Gostlin St (145th St)
  • W Chicago Ave (Rte 312)

Printable Indianapolis Bridge Detour Map (11 MB)


Bridge Operations

Timelapse video showing the bridge operation and tug pushing a barge

Bridge openings are coordinated by direct communication between the tug captains and the bridge operators. The bridge operator opens the bridge as the tug and barge approach. The bridge is closed as quickly as possible once the tug clears the bridge to minimize traffic disruptions. Bridge openings are usually less than 10 minutes each.

Due to vehicle traffic on Indianapolis Blvd, the Indianapolis Blvd Bridge will not open for tug and barge traffic 5:45 AM to 7:45 AM and 3:15 PM to 4:45 PM, Monday through Friday.

The Indianapolis Blvd Bridge is expected to open approximately 8–12 times for every 24-hour period. The schedule provides that less than half of the bridge openings will occur during heavier daytime, weekday traffic periods. The Dickey Road Bridge has some bridge openings due to barge traffic, and the dredging operation will add the same number of openings to Dickey Road as to Indianapolis Blvd.

Notice to Mariners

The tug Nancy Anne pushes a barge from the dredge to the CDF [Source: USACE]

Dredging operations are likely to occur throughout the Indiana Harbor and associated canals. The dredge will consist of a crane on the Derrick 73 spud barge, which will be located in or near the dredging areas. The tug David R Schanock will push barges between the dredge and the Confined Disposal Facility (CDF).

Access to navigation in all areas will be available upon advance request. Vessels will need to coordinate passages with the tug David R Schanock, particularly in restricted channel widths, such as at bridges and at the BP North America dock construction site. Standard U.S. Coast Guard rules of the road and signals will be used for safe vessel passages.

Mariners are requested to contact the dredge Derrick 73 spud barge and the tug David R Schanock at least one hour in advance to coordinate details of passage, particularly if the dredge would need to relocate. The dredge or tug can be contacted on marine radio channel 16 or 18 during dredging operation working time periods.

Notice to Mariners