LINCOLN, NE — The City of Blair recently celebrated the opening of the Blair Bypass connecting Highway 75 to Highway 30. This project provides an alternative route to push traffic south of Blair, cutting down traffic congestion in the city and improving safety.

The project was funded through the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) and backed by a $7.56 million discretionary grant. The recently launched Nebraska Infrastructure Hub, the state’s first-ever intergovernmental entity for empowering public agencies in competing for federal discretionary grants, aims to increase Nebraska’s grant competitiveness and provide support to state and local partners in seeking similar opportunities.

“The opening of the Blair Bypass is a testament to what can be achieved through effective collaboration and strategic investment. NDOT is proud to have supported this vital project and remains committed to empowering communities across Nebraska to secure federal funding and enhance their infrastructure,” said Jodi Gibson, Local Assistance Division Manager, NDOT.

Through technical assistance from NDOT, the Infrastructure Hub will support communities from initial application through project administration, ensuring compliance with federal requirements and deadlines. Other key components of the hub include a Grant Pairing Portal to match projects with suitable grants and a Project Development Support team to provide personalized assistance and feedback on draft proposals.