City of Lincoln to invest nearly $53 million in 2026 street, sidewalk and transportation upgrades

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Officials in Lincoln say nearly $53 million will be invested in transportation infrastructure in 2026, funding a range of projects from street repairs to sidewalk and bridge improvements across the city.

City leaders say the work is part of a broader effort to maintain roads, improve safety and support continued growth.

“Well-maintained streets support public safety, drive economic growth, and contribute to our high quality of life,” Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird said. “And that’s why the city of Lincoln has invested in street improvements at record levels.”

In 2026, the city plans to begin 16 street projects, impacting nearly 21 lane miles of major roads and 47 lane miles of residential streets throughout the city.

Planned work includes improvements along several major corridors, including O Street, Vine Street, Cornhusker Highway and 27th Street.

Projects will also include upgrades to traffic signals, water mains and bus stops.

“Our infrastructure improvements in the 2026 construction season will go beyond the streets themselves and will address other critical transportation needs,” said Elizabeth Elliott.

City leaders say many of the projects will also focus on pedestrian safety, including sidewalk improvements and installation of ADA-compliant curb ramps.

Officials say residents will be able to track construction progress and timelines through the city’s online project map as work rolls out across Lincoln throughout 2026.