Plan to move 11th Street bus transfer center has Lincoln business owners concerned

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The future of a downtown bus transfer center is causing controversy in Lincoln.

Eventually, the StarTran transfer station at 11th and N streets will be part of a larger transportation hub, with public parking and bike and scooter rentals.

But in the meantime, the city wants to move it because of ongoing construction nearby.

The plan is to temporarily move it two blocks south, near 11th and L streets.

“This temporary move will assist in improving the StarTran riders’ quality of life away from construction and dust,” the Lincoln Transportation and Utilities Department said in a statement.

Business owners near the new location are raising concerns. 

“Us businesses on 11th Street would be losing, you know, at least 11 parking spots,” said Nick Maestas, owner of Muchachos restaurant.

He also said there are no public restrooms or benches to accommodate the influx of people.

The city estimates that after three years, the transfer station will move to the transportation hub, the location of which has yet to be determined.

But business owners fear it will be longer. 

Business owners also feel that they were left out of the decision-making conversation. 

“If … the city needed to move it for a couple of months, there is no reason that we wouldn’t be willing to accommodate that,” said SaRena Freet, owner of the Hot Mess. “But two years isn’t temporary for us; three years is a permanent structure.”

One StarTran rider agreed with the city’s decision. 

Kurt Snell said he supports “whatever makes it easier for the driver and easier for the people of the city of Lincoln.” 

Another rider said the construction site is too noisy for riders but didn’t agree with the transfer.

The city will host two open houses next week on the station’s move. They will be at the F Street Community Center on Feb. 21 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. and on Feb. 22 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.