IndyGo Cuts the Ribbon to Celebrate the Official Grand Opening of the Purple Line

INDIANAPOLIS - IndyGo hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday to celebrate the official grand opening of the Purple Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route after its official launch into service this week. The agency welcomed special guests and speakers, including Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Deputy Administrator Veronica Vanterpool, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, Lawrence Mayor Deb Whitfield, and other local dignitaries.

The Purple Line spans 15.2 miles, with 31 stations connecting downtown Indianapolis to the historic City of Lawrence.

"To say the Purple Line is simply 'important' is an understatement," said IndyGo President and CEO Jennifer Pyrz. "It represents progress, access, equity and opportunity. Indianapolis has made the decision to invest in transit because we believe in our potential. We know that our city shines when the spotlight is upon us."

The $188 million project includes $81 million in federal dollars from the FTA.

"The Purple Line isn't just going to impact Indianapolis," said Deputy Administrator Vanterpool. "It's an investment in our shared future. I know it takes many years of hard work to move these projects forward. This is a momentous day."

During the event, local officials also recognized the broad impact of public transit investments in the city.

"When companies and institutions come to Indianapolis to invest in our city, I can guarantee you that strong transportation infrastructure and transit systems are always on their minds," said Mayor Hogsett. "We recognize the great value that IndyGo brings to our city."

"Today is a thrilling day for the Lawrence community," said Mayor Whitfield. "The Purple Line offers Lawrence residents a new connectivity to educational, employment and cultural opportunities in downtown Indianapolis and around the city. I truly believe the Purple Line can bring us closer together as neighbors."

Pastor Kenneth Sullivan of New Direction Church, which is located along the Purple Line corridor, spoke about the impact of the Purple Line at the community level.

"To see the investments made in infrastructure shows care for our community," said Pastor Sullivan. "Overall, it is a blessing for our city."

The Purple Line has brought crucial infrastructure improvements, economic growth and increased access to life's opportunities for Indianapolis residents. Now that it's in service, it's also granting unparalleled connections between downtown Indy and the City of Lawrence and providing faster, more efficient and reliable transportation between many neighborhoods, major employers, healthcare and educational facilities.

Learn more on IndyGo's website here.

See a recap video and photos from the event below.

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Pictured above: IndyGo President and CEO Jennifer Pyrz

Pictured above: FTA Deputy Administrator Veronica Vanterpool

Pictured above: Office of Congressman André Carson Field Representative Andrew Bochnicka

Pictured above: Indiana State Senator La Keisha Jackson

Pictured above: Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett

Pictured above: Lawrence Mayor Deb Whitfield

Pictured above: New Direction Church Pastor Kenneth Sullivan

Pictured above: Ceremonious Purple Line ribbon cutting

Pictured above: The Purple Parade, starring members of the IndyGo team

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