OMAHA— Nebraska has received $5.15 million in federal transportation grants aimed at accelerating major infrastructure projects across the state. The Nebraska Department of Transportation will receive funding through three federal programs, with projects including the proposed Lincoln East Beltway and improvements to congestion along the Interstate 80 corridor connecting with I-680 and I-480 in the Omaha area. Federal Highway Administration Administrator Sean McMaster said the grants are intended to speed up projects that have faced lengthy timelines or have yet to begin.

Gov. Jim Pillen emphasized the importance of completing infrastructure projects more quickly, arguing that delays lead to higher costs. Pillen said the funding will also support Nebraska’s broader economic development efforts and help change its reputation from a “flyover state” to a “fly-to state.” U.S. Rep. Don Bacon also supported the grants and agreed that reducing construction timelines could help control costs. Pillen noted that federal funding flowing to Nebraska has risen to $3.5 billion during his first term and described the latest transportation investments as another sign that Nebraska is “open for business.”

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