61st Avenue Capacity Expansion
Phase 3

Summary:

The 61st Avenue Capacity Expansion Project, Phase 3 completed the corridors expansion from Interstate 65 to State Road 51. The project included reconstruction of the roadway to include a travel lane in each direction with a center two-way-left-turn lane, a roundabout at Wisconsin Street, rehabilitation and widening of Lake County bridge 102, sidewalk, LED lighting, curb and gutter, enclosed storm sewer system, a regional detention pond, utility burial and stream mitigation. The entire eastern segment including the roundabout featured architectural median walls, landscaping, and a gateway near the western limits. To conclude the improvements, the project included watermain and sanitary sewer installation along the corridor to provide relief for failing septic and well systems along 61st Avenue. The roundabout at the intersection of 61st Avenue and Wisconsin Street was the first roundabout to be introduced in the City of Hobart. 

While the project’s main intent was to improve roadway capacity, control access and improve safety along 61st Avenue Corridor, the addition of improved aesthetics, including gateway signage, hardscape, landscape, decorative LED lighting, and the burial of overhead utilities, has added value to what is now a gateway corridor through the hospital campus and into the City. Segments of this corridor contain large, vacant parcels along 61st Avenue that are now primed for economic development. Every aspect of this project gave thought to future growth!