Nebraska DOT breaks ground on highway expansion project

On Thursday, the Nebraska Department of Transportation broke ground on the long-awaited US-30 Grand Island West expansion project.

The groundbreaking was the start of construction of a 4-lane expressway system that is expected to improve safety, connectivity and economic development, officials said. NDOT Director Vicki Kramer joined Grand Island Mayor Roger Steele Werner Construction Project Manager Mike Werner and NDOT District 4 Division Engineer Wes Wahlgren at the ceremony. Kramer said the project was made possible because of the Build Nebraska Act and the Transportation Innovation Act.

“The legislature’s support of transportation is incredibly important. Without their support, we wouldn’t be out here today,” Kramer said.

During the 2023 Legislative Session, initiatives to improve NDOT’s project delivery and construction were passed, including an extension of the Build Nebraska Act through 2042.

The project includes the highway expansion, as well as a realignment of existing roads to match up with the proposed US-30 route. Grand Island Mayor Steele said the project will reduce congestion and make the roads safer for everyone.

“This new roadway represents growth, progress, and a bright future for Grand Island,” Steele said. “Our investment in the state’s infrastructure is a testament to our commitment to the future.”

Kramer urged drivers to remain vigilant during the construction process.

“Please continue to buckle up, put your phone down, and use every opportunity to talk to your friends and family about the safety of our roadways,” Kramer said. “Distracted driving is a real danger, and with more construction zones throughout the summer, we need to be diligent. Whether through construction measures or through education on the importance of road safety, let’s work together to make our roads safer.”

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