Question of the Month

Question - I have noticed surveying markings along the I-69 corridor alignment in my community.  Also, some of my neighbors were sent survey notices but I did not receive one.  What do these markings identify and why was I not mailed a Notice of Survey since I live along the identified corridor?

Answer:

These markings have been placed in conjunction with taking aerial photographs for the upcoming Tier 2 studies of the I-69 corridor. [It is customary for INDOT to take aerial photographs as part of the preparation for an upcoming environmental study.]  The timing of the aerial photography is determined based on two factors: (1) the need to have up-to-date aerial photographs available at the outset of the environmental study, and (2) the need to take aerial photographs during a time of year when the foliage is off the trees but the ground is not covered with snow.  Based on these factors, INDOT decided to take the aerial photographs for the anticipated I-69 Tier 2 studies in late fall 2003.  Taking the aerial photographs at this time will ensure that all participants in the Tier 2 studies have access to clear, comprehensive, and up-to-date aerial photographs for the entire geographic area within which alternatives will be developed in Tier 2 studies. 

The markings placed on the ground for purposes of the aerial photography do not indicate a specific location for I-69.  These markings are located only on a portion of the land being photographed and represent flight panel locations that were utilized by INDOT’s aerial survey personnel to identify the corridor from the air. Survey notices were sent to all property owners along the corridor outside of publicly owned right-of-way whose property needed to be accessed for the placement of these flight panels.

The Tier 2 final alignment work will begin early in 2004, and will consider impacts to residents, businesses and property owners, as well as the natural environment, in determining an exact alignment for I-69.  Additional final design work will then be required before specific land parcels for the highway can be identified.  It is during the final design and land acquisition stages that property owners whose land will be needed for I-69 will be contacted.