Danville council vows to press INDOT over sinkhole; repair costs could escalate if state claims responsibility

Council members discussed a deteriorating catch basin and sinkhole in a state right‑of‑way and the potential repair costs during the March 11 meeting.

Staff described field findings and the town's difficulty getting INDOT to accept responsibility. One council member summarized the exchange with the agency: "They said, no. It's your pipe. You gotta fix it." Town staff warned that an initial estimate of roughly $15,000 for a temporary fix could climb dramatically—examples during the discussion ranged up to $50,000–$75,000 if major pipe replacement or deeper excavation (15 feet) is required.

Council discussed interim protections such as placing steel plates over the hole to reduce immediate public safety risk while pursuing further negotiation with INDOT and potential county support. Speakers emphasized the potential scale if the town assumes long‑term responsibility for state right‑of‑way storm systems: "If we have to take over all the storm system that is in the state's right of way at Danville, we're gonna be...great in Greece," one council member said, warning that the town lacks capacity and funding to maintain extensive state‑constructed drainage.

The council directed staff to document field conditions, request that INDOT reassess responsibility, explore temporary safety measures, and—if necessary—seek county partnership or legal counsel before unilaterally taking on large repairs.

What happens next: staff will pursue engagement with INDOT and county representatives, evaluate interim protections for public safety, and return to the council with options and cost estimates.