New highway, new problems?

CARROLL COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) - In less than three weeks, law enforcement authorities have already pulled over a driver going 109 miles an hour on the new Hoosier Heartland Highway. But multiple agencies tell News 18 they're thankful that seems to be the exception, not the norm.

"I think it's different and it's very, very nice," said Delphi resident John Hamelman.

"I think it's a very safe drive. I think it's better than trying to pass people who are going 45 on a very unsafe road," said Delphi resident Alicia Tedder.

A safe drive it is. At least that's what residents think nearly three weeks after the flat, two-lane Hoosier Heartland Highway opened from Lafayette to Delphi.

"I'm happy about it being there for winter. During winter time, it's going to save a lot of lives," said Tedder.

The Carroll County Sheriff's deputies have also noticed how safe the highway is. Major Tobe Leazenby said deputies haven't had any issues with the 60 miles per hour speed limit.

"Most drivers, I believe, are traveling anywhere between 60 and 65 so speed's not really been a factor," said Leazenby.

Leazenby said deputies have only responded to one crash on the new highway. It happened at the intersection at County Road 800 West. He said there was some property damage but nobody was injured.

Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Deputies said speed hasn't been an issue on the new highway. However, they've had some accidents involving deer.

Speed has been an issue for Indiana State Police. Sergeant Kim Riley told News 18, a trooper clocked a man going 109 miles per hour.

But the speeders don't seem to bother some residents who are just along for the ride.

"I think the people are out right now just traveling to and from and looking the scenery over and admiring the road, the highway," said Hamelman.

Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Deputies will be stepping up patrols during the holiday season. They said the Hoosier Heartland will be a hot spot for Operation Pull Over and blitzes.