Hobart Mayor Josh Huddlestun and Merrillville Town Council President Rick Bella have proposed a Joint Municipal Task Force.
The initiative responds to growing concerns about traffic congestion, pedestrian safety and transit accessibility in both communities. Hobart and Merrillville aim to implement more cohesive transportation strategies. The towns would work together to secure state funding for major road projects and explore potential public transit solutions.
“Our communities are interconnected, and the challenges we face require a unified approach,” Huddleston said in a press release. “By forming this task force, we can maximize resources, improve traffic flow and create safer pedestrian pathways while strengthening economic opportunities for both Merrillville and Hobart.”
The Joint Municipal Task Force would focus on:
- Enhancing traffic flow and road safety
- Improving pedestrian infrastructure
- Exploring shuttle service feasibility
- Securing state funding
- Collaborating on economic development
- Strategizing for a potential regional convention center
The task force will consist of municipal officials, town and city employees, Indiana Department of Transportation representatives and community stakeholders.
The task force will roll out in four phases. The first phase includes initial planning and research. The second phase involves strategic development. The third phase includes proposal submission and pilot programs. The final phase is full implementation and evaluation.
“This initiative is about smart governance and regional cooperation,” Bella said. “By aligning our efforts, we can improve infrastructure, attract funding and ensure that our roadways, pedestrian areas and transit systems support the future growth of both communities.”
