NDOT Highlights Progress Made Possible by Nebraska Legislature’s Recent Investments
November 18, 2025 (Lincoln, Neb.) — On Tuesday, the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) provided an update on the statewide impacts made possible by one-time appropriations approved in 2024 by the Nebraska Legislature and Governor Jim Pillen.
During the 2024 legislative session, state policymakers authorized a $70 million allocation to NDOT to offset inflationary pressures and accelerate the completion of much needed transportation projects. Funding was derived from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the state’s Jobs and Economic Development Initiative Act (JEDI) through LB 1412 (2024).
“Our agency recognizes the significant commitment of resources dedicated to preserving and enhancing Nebraska’s transportation network and is thankful to Governor Pillen and the lawmakers who supported the investment,” said NDOT Director Vicki Kramer. “The ARPA/JEDI investment will have a direct impact on the safety of the highway system statewide and through the dedication and hard work of our public servants, meaningful improvements have been made in a relatively short amount of time.”
The following are highlights of the progress made possible by the 2024 allocation:
Progress on the US-257 Expressway Corridor
The allocation, coupled with the use of bonding authority, condensed the schedule to complete the four-lane expansion of US Highway 275 (US-275). This corridor is vital to the economy and quality of life of northeast Nebraska since it connects the region’s agricultural and manufacturing hubs to major metropolitan markets, as well as the national transportation network.
Preservation of 250-Plus Miles of State Highways
The allocation was used to support 14 pavement preservation projects located in 23 Nebraska counties, covering nearly 260 miles of state highways. These projects focused on extending the surface life of existing rural roadways, which improves safety, and reduces annual maintenance costs.
Only one of the 14 projects remains under construction – and the remaining project is expected to be completed yet this fall. This marks a rapid design, contracting and construction of these projects.
Maximizing Transportation Grant Opportunities for Nebraska Communities
The allocation supported Nebraska Infrastructure Hub (I-HUB) activities. Launched in 2024, the I-HUB was created to help Nebraska’s local agencies access the unprecedented federal funding made available through the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). I-HUB provides grant pairing tools, technical assistance, and project development support — helping Nebraska communities and counties compete for and secure additional discretionary grants.
At last check, I-HUB had engaged with representatives from all 93 Nebraska counties, while NDOT staff traveled over 6,800 miles to meet with 316 stakeholders in 15 counties and provided more than 232 hours of direct assistance. In 2024, Nebraska received 37 awards in 18 counties totaling more than $56 million in discretionary transportation grants, and $98 million in Congressionally directed spending. So far in 2025, six awards have been announced across four counties totaling nearly $74 million in discretionary transportation grants.
“Investments in Nebraska’s transportation network directly support the vitality of the state,” Kramer added. “NDOT, under the leadership of Governor Pillen, is looking forward to continuing its collaboration with the Legislature, Highway Commission, and Infrastructure Review Task Force as our agency examines proven strategies to enhance economic growth through investment in transportation. We are committed to ensuring that funds invested in transportation provide a safer, more competitive, and more connected Nebraska.”