House backs bill to remove Interstate 69 route restriction

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Indiana House members have voted to repeal a state law restricting the route near Indianapolis for the final leg of the Interstate 69 extension.

The House voted 81-11 Tuesday to revoke the 2004 law that prohibits the highway from passing through southern Marion County's Perry Township.

Bill sponsor Rep. John Price of Greenwood says he wants state highway officials to have the option of using the Indiana 37 corridor for the I-69 section between Martinsville and the I-465 loop around Indianapolis.

Those against allowing I-69 to pass through the area argue it would hurt businesses there.

The bill now goes to the Senate, where senators who represent the township oppose the highway following Indiana 37.

Work is underway on the I-69 section between Bloomington and Martinsville.