Colten Pipenger, Executive Director of Dubois Strong, is urging immediate investment in a modern north-south transportation link to connect Interstate 64 and Interstate 69, emphasizing the project as essential to the region’s long-term economic viability.
Pipenger says that while Dubois County’s economy remains strong, its outdated transportation infrastructure is straining under current demands. U.S. Highway 231 is no longer sufficient to support the region’s growing business community and commuting population. The increasing presence of large trucks has contributed to congestion, slowed commerce, and added to daily frustrations for drivers.
He warns that without improvements, companies that have long contributed to the region’s prosperity may begin to scale back operations, disinvest, or even relocate. Despite being among Indiana’s top counties in terms of gross domestic product, Dubois County remains the most populous county in the state without a major four-lane highway.
According to economic analysis by Hunden Strategic Partners, the proposed Mid-States Corridor could generate $300 million annually in economic impact across Dubois and Spencer counties, support the creation of 7,000 long-term jobs, and deliver more than $4 million per year in local tax revenue. Pipenger views these projections as evidence of the project’s long-term value for the region.
National data further supports infrastructure as a driver of economic growth. A study cited from the Journal of Infrastructure found that infrastructure investment reduces transaction costs, boosts labor productivity, and increases overall efficiency, particularly in connection with initiatives like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
While Pipenger acknowledges the need to minimize negative impacts on individuals along the proposed route, he maintains that the broader benefit of the Mid-States Corridor outweighs the costs—similar to the long-term value delivered by Patoka Lake after initial concerns during its development.
He notes that Dubois County already offers highly rated schools, postsecondary education, employment opportunities, low crime, and a high quality of life. However, without modern roadways to match those strengths, the county risks losing its competitive edge in attracting talent and sustaining business growth.
Pipenger is calling for immediate action to secure the county’s future, describing the Mid-States Corridor not just as a transportation upgrade, but as a vital tool for stability, opportunity, and long-term prosperity.
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