The new lane for use by both pedestrians and cyclists will be physically separated from vehicle traffic. (Rendering provided by City of Carmel)
Posted By: The Reporter February 13, 2026
Submitted by City of Carmel
A portion of Range Line Road is targeted for enhancements beginning this spring that include a new multi-use path, on-street parking, and environmental features designed to improve safety and accessibility.
The work on Range Line Road between Executive Drive and City Center Drive is anticipated to begin in April with removal of the aging planter boxes. Construction will then be underway after July 4, in order to minimize disruption during holiday events. Project completion is estimated before the opening of the Christkindlmarkt in November.
Mayor Sue Finkam said the current pathway along this portion of Range Line Road is under-utilized, prompting the city to consider adjustments.
Finkam
“Feedback from residents and riders over the years has guided this design, balancing the needs of cyclists with overall safety and accessibility,” Mayor Finkam said. “We continue to consult our resident cyclists on the project and their input means this will ultimately be a more accessible and more enjoyable street for everyone.”
Councilor Teresa Ayers (District 1) touted the project’s emphasis on safety – for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.
Ayers
“The upgrades align with the city’s commitment to safer, more accessible streets for everyone, encouraging active transportation and vibrant public spaces,” Ayers said.
Range Line Road upgrades include:
- Safety-Focused Design: the existing on-street green bike lane will be replaced with a 10-foot wide single-surface, multi-use path, physically separated from traffic, enhancing safety for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers.
- Enhanced Multi-Use Experience: The new path accommodates both cyclists and pedestrians, providing more space and comfort for all users of the street.
- Improved Parking Options: 17 free, on-street parking spots will be added, supporting local businesses and residents while protecting users on the multi-use path.
- Maintenance Savings and Infrastructure Improvement: Removing the planters will significantly reduce ongoing costs associated with maintenance, which includes annual replanting and ongoing watering. Removal also addresses the normal deterioration of the planters and improves visibility.
- Environmental Benefits: the project will feature rain gardens, improved stormwater management and water quality along the corridor.
The mayor noted that, rather than invest significant funds for replacement and maintenance for a design that has legitimate safety concerns, the decision to fully redesign the passage is a more cost-efficient and safe solution.
“In the interest of safety, we are choosing, literally, a new path forward,” she said.
