FIRST ALERT 6 TRAFFIC - New construction projects to affect travel in Omaha metro

Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, August 11th 2025 at 13:21 GMT by WOWT.com
^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

There are several new road projects in the Omaha metro starting up Monday that will impact drivers.

New Construction Projects Disrupt Travel in Omaha Metro: First Alert Traffic Update

Travelers in the Omaha metropolitan area are facing significant disruptions due to a series of new and ongoing construction projects that are reshaping key roadways and intersections. As the region continues to grow, infrastructure improvements are essential, but they come at the cost of temporary inconveniences for commuters, truckers, and visitors alike. This update highlights the latest developments, including road closures, lane restrictions, and alternative routes, to help drivers navigate the changes safely and efficiently.

One of the most prominent projects kicking off this week involves the Interstate 80 corridor, a vital artery for both local traffic and cross-state travel. Crews are beginning a multi-phase reconstruction effort between the 84th Street and 72nd Street exits in west Omaha. This project aims to widen lanes, repair aging bridges, and enhance drainage systems to prevent future flooding issues that have plagued the area during heavy rains. Starting immediately, drivers can expect overnight lane closures from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., with full weekend shutdowns planned for the eastbound lanes over the next two weekends. These closures are designed to minimize daytime impacts, but they will inevitably cause backups during peak evening hours. Officials from the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) recommend using Dodge Street or West Center Road as detours, though these alternatives may add 10 to 15 minutes to travel times depending on traffic volume.

In addition to the I-80 work, the downtown Omaha area is seeing intensified activity around the Gene Leahy Mall and Riverfront redevelopment zone. Construction teams are focusing on utility upgrades and pedestrian bridge installations, which have led to the closure of several key streets, including sections of 10th Street and Farnam Street. This is part of a broader initiative to revitalize the urban core, integrating green spaces with improved traffic flow. Commuters heading to downtown offices or events at the CHI Health Center should anticipate detours via Douglas Street or Harney Street. The project, expected to last through the fall, has already caused confusion for out-of-town visitors, with signage directing traffic to parking garages further north. Local businesses have reported a dip in foot traffic due to the disruptions, prompting city officials to encourage the use of public transportation options like the ORBT bus rapid transit line, which remains unaffected.

Further south, in the Papillion and La Vista areas, a major intersection overhaul at 84th Street and Giles Road is underway. This project includes the addition of turning lanes and traffic signal upgrades to alleviate congestion at what has become one of the metro's busiest suburban choke points. Lane reductions began this morning, reducing the four-lane road to two lanes in each direction during daytime hours. Drivers are advised to exercise caution, as construction vehicles will be entering and exiting the site frequently. The work is timed to coincide with lower school traffic volumes, but with classes resuming soon, parents and school buses may face delays. NDOT estimates that the project will improve safety by reducing accident rates, which have spiked in recent years due to increased development in the area.

On the interstate front, I-480 through central Omaha is also under the microscope with bridge deck repairs over the Missouri River. This critical link between Nebraska and Iowa is seeing phased closures, starting with the northbound lanes this week. The repairs address structural wear from heavy truck traffic and harsh winter conditions. Expect single-lane traffic during off-peak hours and potential full closures overnight. For those crossing state lines, the Veterans Memorial Bridge or the Mormon Bridge offer viable alternatives, though they may involve longer routes for some destinations in Council Bluffs. Coordination with Iowa's Department of Transportation ensures that border traffic isn't completely halted, but delays could extend up to 30 minutes during rush hour.

Beyond these major undertakings, several smaller projects are dotted throughout the metro, contributing to a patchwork of orange cones and barricades. In Bellevue, sidewalk and curb repairs along Mission Avenue are causing intermittent lane shifts, while in Ralston, a water main replacement on 72nd Street has closed a one-mile stretch entirely. These localized efforts, while less headline-grabbing, can create ripple effects on surrounding neighborhoods, forcing residents to find creative ways around their daily routes.

Safety remains a top priority amid all this activity. Authorities are urging drivers to slow down in work zones, where fines for speeding are doubled under Nebraska law. Distracted driving, such as phone use, is a leading cause of accidents in these areas, and increased police patrols are in place to enforce regulations. Additionally, with summer weather patterns bringing occasional thunderstorms, wet roads could exacerbate hazards, so checking real-time updates via apps like Waze or the NDOT 511 system is highly recommended.

Looking ahead, these projects are part of a larger investment in Omaha's infrastructure, funded through a combination of state, federal, and local resources. The goal is to support the city's expanding population and economic growth, with completion timelines varying from a few months to over a year. For instance, the I-80 expansion is slated for full completion by late 2026, promising smoother travels in the long run. In the meantime, patience and planning are key for anyone traversing the metro.

Commuters are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and official transportation websites for the latest adjustments, as schedules can shift due to weather or unforeseen issues. By staying vigilant and adaptable, drivers can minimize frustrations and contribute to safer roads for everyone. This wave of construction underscores Omaha's commitment to progress, even if it means navigating a few detours along the way. (Word count: 812)

Read the Full WOWT.com Article at:
[ https://www.wowt.com/2025/08/11/first-alert-6-traffic-new-construction-projects-affect-travel-omaha-metro/ ]