The idea of a Lincoln beltway was first introduced in the 1960s, but planning and funding complications slowed its evolution. With the passing of the Build Nebraska Act and federal funds through the TIGER Grant, NDOT was able to commit the resources required to significantly reduce the construction schedule for the project.
Benesch’s breadth of experience executing of high-profile projects was critical to the delivery of the Lincoln South Beltway. Benesch and NDOT developed a collaborative delivery approach that accounted for the project’s complexity and unique environmental issues and shortened the delivery schedule from 10 years to three. Additionally, Benesch led the development of the project’s Environmental Assessment document, as well as preliminary and final design on behalf of the City of Lincoln, Lancaster County, and NDOT.
“Benesch has continued to be a strong partner to NDOT with their commitment to successful delivery of projects like the Lincoln South Beltway,” Kramer said. “The work they performed with a condensed schedule exceeded expectations, and they are well deserving of this award. We congratulate our friends at Benesch for this prestigious award and look forward to continued success in the future.”
At the end of 2022, six months ahead of schedule, the beltway partially opened to traffic, and in the fall of 2023 was fully completed, transforming the region with improved safety and simplified travel along the city’s southern boundary.
