West Lafayette project aims to create safer travel

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - The first phase of the Perimeter Parkway Project is now complete, including a median on Harrison Street, a bicycle path, and a roundabout. 

West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis said the redeveloped portion of Harrison Street south of Purdue's campus focuses on the needs of people traveling on Purdue's campus.   

"University students don't generally bring cars with them to campus," Mayor Dennis said. "They come with bicycles or they come with their new Nike tennis shoes and this will be an easier and safer way for them to get around."

The next plan for the project that was completed six months ahead of schedule will connect US 231 to Harrison Street, creating one of the first access points from a state road in West Lafayette to Purdue's campus.

Purdue Vice President of Physical Facilities Robert McMains said once that is done, they aim to improve roads cutting through campus.

"We'll take twenty-six and shrink that down to be more pedestrian-friendly," McMains said. "That means we'll put more yield signs and stop signs in it."

The city of West Lafayette, Purdue,Tippecanoe County Area Plan Commission, and CityBus all worked together to bring the changes to the city and expect the US 231 entrance to be finished next summer.

Future plans for the project will redevelop Stadium Street and McCormick Road around campus.