Strike stalling work on N. Ind. road projects

GARY, Ind. — A strike by construction workers has halted progress on numerous road projects across northern Indiana.

Three contractors groups and the union have yet to agree on new contracts after the previous ones expired May 31. Ed Maher of International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150 says about 2,500 workers are covered by the contracts.

Jim Pinkerton of the Indiana Department of Transportation tells The Times of Munster that one of the most prominent projects being delayed is the widening of Interstate 80/94 in Gary. He says the project was expected to be completed by the end of June.

He says the agency hopes the two sides keep talking and reach a resolution soon.