Washington Avenue in Vincennes officially reopened to traffic today, marking the end of a large-scale improvement project that began in June 2023.

City officials and residents gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the entrance to Gregg Park to celebrate the $8 million project. Of that total, $6.6 million covered construction costs, largely funded by transportation grants.

Mayor Joe Yochum expressed his satisfaction with the timely completion of the project. “It is really exciting, but I can tell you it’s probably more exciting for the residents and the businesses, as well as my city engineer,” he said.

City Engineer John Sprague highlighted his enthusiasm for seeing the final touches come together. “My favorite day of any major project is paint day, and that’s today,” Sprague said. “It coincides with getting it done as we’re opening it. Once the third coat is done, it’s going to look fantastic.”

City Council member Marc McNeece praised the project as a significant enhancement for the community. “I’m excited to see it done and moving forward,” McNeece said. “It’s a vast improvement over what we had before. You have to understand—there are new pipes, stormwater systems, and water lines. This was a great investment in our community that will last the city of Vincennes for a very long time.”