New Analysis Shows Strong Economic Benefits of Mid-States Corridor Project

Recent analysis using the Transportation Economic Development Impact System (TREDIS), a widely used tool employed by the U.S. Department of Transportation and more than 30 state departments of transportation, shows strong long-term economic benefits resulting from the Mid-States Corridor project. Results indicate benefits are more than four times the estimated project cost and highlight what has been a central focus of the project since the start of the Tier 1 Study in 2019: improving accessibility.

“Improved regional access is essential for both manufacturing and distribution sectors in southern Indiana, which depend on efficient connections to major markets and freight routes,” said Secretary of Transportation and Infrastructure Matt Ubelhor. “Manufacturing plays a vital role in the economy of Dubois County and surrounding region, supporting hundreds of local families through well-paying jobs and contributing to the community’s tax base and overall economic stability.”

Why Connection Drives Growth

The Mid-States Corridor project is designed to:

• Increase access to major business markets

• Improve truck and freight efficiency across southern Indiana

• Strengthen connections to intermodal transportation centers

Because accessibility is such a key driver of economic activity, the project also supports broader goals of economic development and regional growth.

Strong Long-Term Economic Outlook

The Phase 1 analysis for Section 2 of the project in Dubois County shows meaningful long-term benefits that build over time and extend well beyond construction.

By 2050, the analysis projects:

• 1,371 new jobs created

• 961 new households added

• 2,043 additional residents in the region

• $427 million in additional annual business output in 2050 alone

The largest gains are expected in:

• Manufacturing: $180 million

• Agriculture: $92 million

Overall, the cumulative impact to the local economy from the start of construction through the study horizon year (2050) is projected to reach approximately $8 billion in total value, depending on interest rates.

Looking Ahead

These results reflect a long-term outlook for improved mobility, stronger freight movement, and expanded economic opportunity across the region as the project advances.

The Mid-States Corridor project follows a step-by-step process with designated milestones throughout analysis and development. The most recent checkpoint was in fall 2025 with the release of the Screening of Alternatives Report. The next major update will come in fall 2026, when the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) will be shared, including announcement of a single-preferred option, or preferred alternative.

In the meantime, the project team is continuing to progress engineering, environmental studies, coordination, methodology and document review with partner agencies.

For more information about the Mid-States Corridor project, visit MidStatesCorridor.com.