Indiana Department of Transportation Context-Based Criteria 

We are working with the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) to evaluate potential updates to the Indiana Design Manual (IDM) that will bring more context-sensitive standards to urban areas across the state. These changes aim to create roadway designs that better reflect local environments and user needs. 

What We’re Doing 

Our team is supporting INDOT by: 

• Summarizing national research and approaches from other State DOTs. 

• Outlining the connection between design speed and target speed, including strategies for speed management. 

• Drafting context-appropriate design criteria for urban-related areas. 

• Developing a framework to estimate costs and benefits of implementing these criteria statewide. 

Looking Ahead 

This initial phase will also produce an implementation plan to integrate the new context-based criteria into the IDM and INDOT projects, ensuring consistency and flexibility in future roadway design. 

Why It Matters 

Updating design standards is more than a technical exercise—it’s about creating streets that balance safety, mobility, and community needs. By aligning design practices with context, INDOT can deliver projects that serve all users and foster vibrant, connected places.