Drivers in Lincoln, Nebraska, should prepare for several traffic changes beginning Monday as construction, paving and crane operations affect four areas across the city. Lincoln Transportation and Utilities said motorists should plan alternate routes and use caution when traveling near the work zones.
The projects include a temporary closure on Centennial Mall, turn restrictions at 56th Street and Cornhusker Highway, a longer-term closure along Van Dorn Street and utility work affecting eastbound O Street.
Centennial Mall Closing for Private Crane Work
Centennial Mall between M and N streets will close beginning Monday to accommodate private crane operations.
Lincoln Transportation and Utilities expects the work to continue through Friday, Oct. 9. While the section of Centennial Mall will be inaccessible to through traffic, both M and N streets are expected to remain open during the project.
Drivers traveling through downtown Lincoln should account for the closure when planning trips through the area.
Turn Restrictions at 56th Street and Cornhusker Highway
Motorists will also encounter temporary restrictions at the intersection of 56th Street and Cornhusker Highway as part of an ongoing street improvement project.
Beginning Monday, left turns from 56th Street onto Cornhusker Highway will be prohibited. Left turns from Cornhusker Highway onto 56th Street will also be restricted.
The temporary traffic changes are expected to remain in effect through Friday, Oct. 2.
Because Cornhusker Highway serves as an important east-west corridor in Lincoln, drivers who regularly use the intersection may want to allow additional travel time or choose another route while the restrictions are in place.
Van Dorn Street Closing for Paving Project
A section of Van Dorn Street will close Monday as crews begin paving work between 98th and 112th streets.
Unlike some of the shorter closures, the Van Dorn Street project is expected to continue into early November.
Transportation officials recommend that motorists use Van Dorn Street to 98th Street or 148th Street to Old Cheney Road as an alternate route around the construction zone.
The extended closure could affect residents and other motorists traveling through southeast Lincoln, particularly those who regularly use Van Dorn Street to connect with surrounding neighborhoods and major north-south roads.
Eastbound O Street Closure Scheduled for Utility Work
Another temporary closure will begin Wednesday on eastbound O Street between 11th and 12th streets.
The affected section will remain closed through Friday, Oct. 2, while crews perform utility work. Eleventh and 12th streets will remain open during the project.
Drivers approaching the downtown area from O Street should watch for traffic-control signs and be prepared to follow posted detours around the work zone.
Drivers Encouraged to Plan Alternate Routes
Lincoln Transportation and Utilities is advising travelers to seek alternate routes where possible and exercise caution around all active construction areas.
Motorists should watch for workers, construction equipment, temporary traffic controls and changing lane configurations near the affected streets. Allowing additional travel time may also help reduce delays, particularly during peak commuting periods.
The city noted that construction schedules remain subject to change. Weather conditions, unexpected infrastructure issues and other unforeseen circumstances can affect when work begins or when streets reopen.
With several projects taking place at the same time, Lincoln drivers should expect temporary disruptions across downtown and other parts of the city. Planning ahead and following posted traffic controls can help motorists navigate the closures until each project is completed.
Alexander Donovan writes for News Collective, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, reliable reporting and useful information, helping readers stay informed about current events, emerging trends, and stories that matter.