The City of Elkhart is hosting a ribbon cutting June 16 to celebrate its new streetscape project at the I-80 Exit 92 interchange.
The $8 million investment aims to improve the aesthetic appeal, functionality and safety of a critical corridor for residents, businesses and annual visitors.
The completed streetscape project adds a welcoming entrance to Elkhart, visible to the over 10.2 million vehicle trips annually on the Indiana Toll Road between Exit 92 and Exit 96. The improvement is designed to elevate the city's image for the 7.33 million annual vehicle trips along Cassopolis Street (Northpointe-Windsor) and the 1.86 million annual trips utilizing the Exit 92 ramps.
“Millions of drivers utilize Exit 92 every year. That exit serves as a critical first impression of the City of Elkhart,” Mayor Rod Roberson said in a press release. “These improvements will foster a stronger sense of civic pride, enhance economic development opportunities for our hospitality businesses and ensure a safer, more welcoming environment for everyone coming through the Cassopolis Gateway.”
Key features of the new streetscape include:
- Enhanced gateway appearance: Landscaping, updated signage and visual elements to create a more memorable entry point into Elkhart.
- Improved pedestrian safety: Dedicated pathways and redesigned intersections to enhance safety for pedestrians, particularly for employees of the hospitality businesses in the Exit 92 corridor.
- Visitor amenities: The inclusion of a new linear park and micro-park to provide an attractive space for travelers and residents, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits to local establishments.
- Economic development support: A more attractive and functional corridor is expected to support existing businesses and attract new investment to the area.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place 10:30 a.m. June 16, at the new Green Space and Micro Park in front of the Cracker Barrel at Exit 92.
Attendees at the unveiling will include Mayor Rod Roberson, members of the Elkhart City Council and representatives from the development teams.
