The City of Lincoln recently announced that a large competitive “Investing In America” grant has been won from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Biden-Harris Administration to build a bridge over the railroad tracks at 33rd and Cornhusker. This grant includes funding for cyclist and pedestrian safety.
From our Mayor on January 14: “Incredible news – The City of Lincoln has secured a $66.7 million grant from the Biden-Harris Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation- the largest competitive grant in Lincoln’s history! This project will construct a bridge over the rail corridor at 33rd and Cornhusker, eliminating two busy railroad crossings and reducing traffic delays caused by 48 daily trains.
For decades, these crossings have contributed to congestion and safety concerns, including 20 crashes and six fatalities. By removing these crossings, the project will reduce delays, improve safety, and enhance connectivity for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists in Lincoln.
Lincoln on the Move, RTSD, BNSF, and NDOT will collectively contribute nearly $48 million to the project. With the grant covering 58% of the $120 million cost, this achievement underscores federal, state, and local collaboration in creating a more efficient and connected city.”
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2028, with completion targeted for 2031.
Our friends at Bike Walk Nebraska tell us it includes over two miles of protected bike lanes first identified in the 2019 Lincoln Bike Plan. I couldn’t find this nugget of information, but it would make sense if it involves the new bridge and links to the Salt Creek levee or the Superior St. and Dietrich trails close by.
If you’ve ever ridden in that area, you know it’s not great, it’s not even good, and is a time-drainer when you’re trying to get somewhere. This will help immensely, but we must be patient, as it’s not expected to be completed until between 2028 and 2031. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is our cycling infrastructure.
