This week, we celebrate Statehood Day. On Sunday, Dec. 11, Indiana turns 200 years old. That’s two centuries full of innovation and history, including how we developed our state’s motto, the Crossroads of America.
One of the roads contributing to our motto runs through many of our communities. Michigan Road is one of Indiana’s earliest highways, and was created in 1829 to connect the Ohio River to what was then the new state capital, Indianapolis, to Lake Michigan. Many of you have traveled on or live near this road, and may know that you can still drive it from end to end.
Commissioned in 1826 by the Indiana General Assembly, Michigan Road cut through dense forest, opening the Hoosier state to commerce and settlement. This historic byway winds its way through 14 counties and more than two dozen communities – beginning in nearby Madison and ending in Michigan City in Northwest Indiana. This one road showcases the essence of Indiana through small towns, cities and farm country.
To continue preserving roads like Michigan and maintaining our reputation as the Crossroads of America, I co-authored a law giving communities a matching grant to help improve our local roads and bridges. Dearborn, Decatur, Jefferson and Jennings counties together received more than $2.6 million, with nine smaller communities in our area receiving over $2.6 million. As a member of the House Committee on Roads and Transportation, I will continue to work this session to find a sustainable, and comprehensive funding solution to maintain Hoosier roads for the long term.
Happy birthday, Indiana, and if you would like to learn more about historic Michigan Road, visit www.historicmichiganroad.org.
Please contact me with your input by email at h67@iga.in.gov or call 317-234-3827.
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State Rep. Frye (R-Greensburg) represents House District 67, which includes Ohio, Ripley and Switzerland counties, as well as portions of Decatur, Jennings, Jefferson and Dearborn counties.
A high-resolution photo of Frye can be downloaded by clicking here.
