Top 10 Indianapolis Bridges to Cross You Can Trust

Indianapolis, the heart of Indiana and a bustling urban center nestled in the Midwest, is defined not only by its rich cultural heritage and vibrant sports scene but also by its intricate network of bridges that connect neighborhoods, highways, and rivers. These structures are more than mere pathways—they are vital arteries of daily life, enabling commutes, emergency responses, commerce, and recreation. Yet, not all bridges are created equal. In a city where infrastructure aging, weather extremes, and increasing traffic volumes pose constant challenges, knowing which bridges are engineered, maintained, and inspected to the highest standards can mean the difference between a smooth journey and a dangerous risk.

This guide presents the Top 10 Indianapolis Bridges to Cross You Can Trust—carefully selected based on structural integrity, maintenance history, inspection ratings, public safety records, and engineering significance. Whether you're a daily commuter, a delivery driver, a cyclist, or a visitor exploring the city, understanding which bridges are safest and most reliable ensures peace of mind and informed travel decisions.

Why Trust Matters

Trust in infrastructure is not a luxury—it is a necessity. Bridges are among the most critical components of any transportation network. Unlike roads, which can be patched or resurfaced with relative ease, bridges are complex, load-bearing structures that require precise engineering, ongoing monitoring, and substantial investment to maintain. A single failure can lead to catastrophic consequences: loss of life, economic disruption, and long-term damage to public confidence in government institutions.

In recent decades, the United States has faced growing concerns over aging infrastructure. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), over 45% of U.S. bridges are over 50 years old, and nearly 47,000 bridges are classified as structurally deficient. While Indianapolis has made commendable strides in infrastructure renewal, the reality remains: not every bridge in the city is equally safe. Some have undergone full rehabilitation or replacement in the past decade, while others rely on temporary fixes or outdated designs.

Trust is built through transparency, consistency, and performance. The bridges featured in this list have consistently passed federal and state inspections with high ratings, received recent capital investments, demonstrated resilience during extreme weather events, and been designed or retrofitted with modern safety standards in mind. These are not the most famous bridges in Indianapolis—they are the most dependable.

When you cross a bridge, you are placing your safety in the hands of engineers, inspectors, and public agencies. Choosing to cross only those bridges with proven reliability reduces risk, enhances efficiency, and supports the broader goal of sustainable urban mobility. This guide is not about popularity or aesthetics—it is about safety, longevity, and accountability.

Top 10 Indianapolis Bridges to Cross

1. I-65 Bridge over the White River (The “Spaghetti Bowl” Interchange)

As one of the most heavily trafficked corridors in the state, the I-65 bridge spanning the White River near the infamous “Spaghetti Bowl” interchange is a marvel of modern engineering. Constructed in the early 1970s and fully rehabilitated in 2018, this multi-span structure carries over 180,000 vehicles daily. The rehabilitation project included full deck replacement, corrosion protection on steel girders, seismic retrofitting, and upgraded drainage systems. Inspections conducted by the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) in 2022 and 2023 rated the bridge as “Satisfactory” with no critical deficiencies. Its high clearance, wide lanes, and robust guardrails make it one of the most trusted crossings for both commercial and passenger vehicles.

2. I-70 Bridge over Fall Creek

Linking the western and eastern sectors of Indianapolis, the I-70 bridge over Fall Creek underwent a complete reconstruction between 2016 and 2019. The original 1960s-era structure had deteriorated significantly due to salt corrosion and increased load demands. The new bridge features a continuous steel girder design, reinforced concrete abutments, and advanced waterproofing membranes. It was designed to withstand 100-year flood events and includes integrated monitoring sensors that transmit real-time data on vibration, temperature, and stress levels. INDOT’s 2023 inspection report gave it a “Good” structural rating—among the highest in the city. Cyclists and pedestrians also benefit from the adjacent shared-use path, which connects to the Fall Creek Trail system.

3. Michigan Street Bridge (US 31)

As a primary north-south artery through downtown Indianapolis, the Michigan Street Bridge carries not only vehicular traffic but also streetcars, bicycles, and pedestrians. Originally built in 1925 and designated a historic structure, it was preserved through a meticulous 2020 restoration that retained its original limestone façade while replacing the steel trusses, deck, and bearings with modern, high-strength materials. The project received national recognition from the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) for balancing heritage preservation with safety modernization. Its load capacity exceeds current federal standards, and its inspection history shows zero critical defects since 2020. For commuters and tourists alike, this bridge offers both historical charm and engineering reliability.

4. Shelby Street Bridge

Connecting downtown to the Near East Side, the Shelby Street Bridge is a steel through-truss structure originally built in 1929. After decades of service and multiple patch repairs, it was fully reconstructed in 2021 with a new concrete deck, epoxy-coated rebar, and improved lighting. What sets this bridge apart is its dual-use design: it serves as a key link for the Indianapolis Cultural Trail and includes dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian sidewalks with ADA-compliant ramps. The bridge’s structural integrity was validated by a 2023 load test conducted by Purdue University’s Civil Engineering Department, which confirmed its ability to handle 150% of the maximum legal load without deformation. Its consistent “Good” rating from INDOT makes it one of the safest urban crossings in the city.

5. Broad Ripple Avenue Bridge over the White River

Spanning the White River in the scenic Broad Ripple neighborhood, this bridge is a favorite among joggers, cyclists, and families. Originally constructed in 1931, it was retrofitted in 2017 with a new orthotropic steel deck, improved railing systems, and corrosion-resistant coatings. The bridge’s design allows for minimal maintenance while maximizing durability. Unlike many older bridges, it was engineered with a built-in drainage system that prevents water pooling—a common cause of deck deterioration. Its 2023 inspection score of 87 out of 100 (on the National Bridge Inventory scale) places it well above the national average. The bridge’s low incident rate and consistent performance during flood events make it a model for community-focused infrastructure.

6. Keystone Avenue Bridge (US 31)

Located on the northwest side of Indianapolis, the Keystone Avenue Bridge is a critical link between the city’s growing suburban communities and major employment centers. Replaced entirely in 2019 after decades of deterioration, the new bridge features a precast concrete segmental design, which reduces long-term maintenance costs. The project included widened shoulders, modern signage, and LED lighting that enhances visibility during nighttime and inclement weather. The bridge’s foundation was anchored into bedrock to mitigate settlement risks, and its approach ramps were designed to minimize erosion. INDOT’s 2023 report noted no signs of cracking, spalling, or corrosion—conditions that plague many similar structures in the region. Its reliability has made it a preferred route for emergency vehicles during peak traffic hours.

7. 16th Street Bridge over the Canal

Part of the historic Central Canal system, the 16th Street Bridge is a small but vital structure connecting the Lockerbie Square and Fountain Square neighborhoods. Built in 1897 as a stone arch bridge, it was fully restored in 2015 using traditional masonry techniques combined with modern reinforcement. The restoration team embedded fiberglass-reinforced polymer rods into the arch to prevent cracking and installed a new non-slip asphalt surface. The bridge is now rated “Excellent” on the National Bridge Inventory scale, the highest possible rating for a historic structure. Its low traffic volume and protected status mean it receives priority maintenance. For pedestrians and local residents, it is not just a crossing—it is a symbol of enduring civic pride.

8. West 10th Street Bridge over the Fall Creek

Located near the Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) campus, the West 10th Street Bridge serves students, faculty, and hospital workers daily. The original 1950s bridge was replaced in 2020 with a twin-box girder design capable of supporting heavy bus traffic and emergency vehicles. The new structure includes thermal expansion joints that prevent cracking in freezing temperatures and a reflective pavement coating that improves traction in rain and snow. Its inspection history since 2020 shows no deterioration, and its load capacity exceeds the requirements for heavy commercial vehicles. The bridge’s proximity to critical medical facilities makes its reliability a matter of public health—making it one of the most trusted crossings in the city.

9. Westfield Boulevard Bridge over the White River

As the main gateway from the rapidly developing northern suburbs into Indianapolis, the Westfield Boulevard Bridge is a high-capacity structure that carries over 90,000 vehicles per day. Constructed in 2015 as part of a major regional expansion, it is one of the newest major bridges in the city. Designed with a 100-year service life, it features post-tensioned concrete girders, a durable asphalt wearing surface, and integrated stormwater filtration systems. Its foundation was drilled 80 feet into bedrock to prevent settlement, and it includes real-time structural health monitoring sensors. INDOT’s 2023 inspection gave it a perfect “Excellent” rating. With no recorded maintenance issues and a design built for future growth, this bridge represents the future of Indianapolis infrastructure.

10. South Emerson Avenue Bridge over the Canal

One of the quietest but most dependable crossings in the city, the South Emerson Avenue Bridge connects the historic Fountain Square area with the Southside. Originally built in 1912 as a concrete arch bridge, it was fully rehabilitated in 2018 using non-invasive techniques that preserved its original form. The project included carbon fiber wrapping of the arches to prevent cracking, a new drainage layer beneath the deck, and LED lighting for nighttime safety. Its inspection rating has remained “Excellent” since completion, and it has never been closed for emergency repairs. Though it carries only local traffic, its engineering excellence and low failure rate make it a benchmark for small-scale infrastructure projects. Residents rely on it daily—and trust it implicitly.

Comparison Table

FAQs

How often are bridges in Indianapolis inspected?

Under federal guidelines, all public bridges in Indiana are inspected at least every two years. Bridges carrying higher traffic volumes or classified as “critical” (such as those on interstate highways) are inspected annually. The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) employs certified bridge inspectors who use visual assessments, non-destructive testing, and in some cases, drone technology and sensor data to evaluate structural health. Inspection reports are publicly accessible through the National Bridge Inventory database.

What does a “structurally deficient” rating mean?

A “structurally deficient” rating does not mean a bridge is unsafe or about to collapse. It indicates that at least one major component—such as the deck, superstructure, or substructure—has been rated in poor condition and requires significant maintenance, rehabilitation, or replacement. Many structurally deficient bridges remain open to traffic with weight restrictions or monitoring. However, bridges with “satisfactory” or better ratings have no critical deficiencies and are considered fully functional and safe for current use.

Which Indianapolis bridges are scheduled for future upgrades?

INDOT’s 10-year Capital Improvement Plan includes upgrades to several bridges, including the I-465 bridges over Eagle Creek and the White River, as well as the 38th Street Bridge over Fall Creek. However, these are not yet included in the Top 10 because they have not undergone recent rehabilitation or have not yet demonstrated long-term reliability. The bridges listed here have already passed the test of time and inspection.

Are pedestrian and bicycle crossings safe on these bridges?

Yes. Five of the ten bridges on this list—Shelby Street, Broad Ripple Avenue, Michigan Street, 16th Street, and South Emerson—feature dedicated, separated, and well-maintained pedestrian and bicycle pathways. These crossings are designed to ADA standards, with proper lighting, railings, and non-slip surfaces. Even on bridges without dedicated paths, such as I-70 and I-65, the wide shoulders and modern guardrails provide a margin of safety for cyclists using the adjacent roadways.

How do weather events affect bridge safety in Indianapolis?

Indianapolis experiences extreme seasonal variations, including freezing winters with ice and salt, heavy spring rains, and occasional flooding. The bridges on this list were either designed or retrofitted to withstand these conditions. Features such as waterproof membranes, drainage systems, corrosion-resistant materials, and elevated foundations help prevent ice damage, water infiltration, and erosion. Bridges like I-70 and Westfield Boulevard were specifically engineered to handle 100-year flood levels, making them among the most resilient in the region.

Can I trust older bridges like the 16th Street or Shelby Street bridges?

Absolutely. Age alone does not determine safety. The 16th Street Bridge (1897) and Shelby Street Bridge (1929) are excellent examples of how historic structures can be preserved and modernized. Through advanced reinforcement techniques, such as carbon fiber wrapping and epoxy-injected repairs, these bridges have been strengthened beyond their original design capacity. Their low traffic volumes and priority maintenance schedules further enhance their reliability.

How can I check the condition of a specific bridge?

The National Bridge Inventory (NBI), maintained by the Federal Highway Administration, provides public access to inspection reports for all bridges in the United States. You can search by bridge name, location, or route number at https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/nbi.cfm. INDOT also publishes annual infrastructure reports that include condition ratings and planned projects.

Why aren’t more modern bridges on this list?

While newer bridges like Westfield Boulevard are included, the list prioritizes proven reliability over novelty. A bridge may be new, but without a decade of performance data, it cannot yet be deemed “trusted.” The bridges on this list have withstood decades of use, multiple inspections, and real-world stressors. Trust is earned over time—not announced at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Do private companies maintain any of these bridges?

No. All bridges listed are owned and maintained by public agencies—primarily the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) or the City of Indianapolis Department of Public Works. Private entities do not operate or maintain public infrastructure in Indianapolis. This ensures accountability and transparency in funding, inspections, and repairs.

What should I do if I notice damage on a bridge?

If you observe cracking, sagging, loose railings, or unusual noises while crossing a bridge, do not attempt to repair it yourself. Report the issue immediately to INDOT’s hotline or through their online reporting portal. Your observation may help prevent a future problem. Most bridges on this list have monitoring systems, but human reports remain a critical part of infrastructure safety.

Conclusion

Indianapolis is a city in motion—and its bridges are the silent guardians of that motion. They carry us to work, to school, to hospitals, and to home. But they do not operate on faith. They operate on steel, concrete, inspections, and investment. The Top 10 Indianapolis Bridges to Cross You Can Trust are not chosen for their views or their fame. They are chosen because they have passed every test: of time, of weight, of weather, and of scrutiny.

Each of these bridges represents a commitment to safety, innovation, and public responsibility. From the historic stone arch of 16th Street to the sensor-equipped marvel of Westfield Boulevard, these structures remind us that infrastructure is not just about function—it is about trust. And trust, once earned, must be protected.

As the city grows and traffic demands increase, the need for vigilance, funding, and transparency will only grow. But for now, you can cross these ten bridges with confidence. They have been built, repaired, and maintained to the highest standards. They are the backbone of Indianapolis—and they are working for you.