Zipper Barrier in Action: I-69 Construction Uses Movable Wall System in Auburn, Indiana
Industry Insights
If you’ve traveled I-69 near Auburn, Indiana recently, you may have spotted something unusual—a massive concrete wall gliding across the highway. That’s not sci-fi. It’s the zipper barrier system, and it’s in full use during overnight construction in northeast Indiana.
The zipper barrier (also called a moveable barrier wall) is a clever traffic control solution that uses a machine to laterally shift interlocking concrete segments. This allows construction crews to quickly open or close lanes depending on the time of day—improving safety and efficiency without requiring constant manual labor or permanent closures.
On I-69, INDOT is using this technology to support concrete pavement restoration between mile markers 327 and 334. The wall is typically moved around 7 AM and 7 PM, helping accommodate peak-hour traffic during the day and construction at night.
It’s a great example of how engineering innovation can reduce disruption while keeping big infrastructure projects on track.
Whether you’re an infrastructure nerd (like us) or just passing through, it’s worth a look—just don’t slow down to stare!
American Structurepoint has some great footage of the “Zipper Wall” in action: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjMykJC4G30
