State and local officials gathered Monday to celebrate the completion of a major infrastructure milestone west of Grand Island — the expansion of U.S. Highway 30 into a four-lane expressway. The nearly $50 million project aims to enhance safety, mobility, and economic growth throughout central Nebraska.
Construction began in April 2024, with Werner Construction leading the effort. Crews moved more than 800,000 cubic yards of dirt and poured over 60,000 cubic yards of concrete, completing the project without a single lost-time accident.
Grand Island Mayor Roger Steele said the expansion marks an important investment in the community’s future.
“This project was years in the making,” Steele said. “It’s a big step forward not only for this community, but for the continued growth of Grand Island.”
The project also included the realignment of North Road and Stolley Park Road, providing safer access points and improving traffic flow for both residents and freight carriers.
Vicki Kramer, Director of the Nebraska Department of Transportation, said the project represents the department’s commitment to safety and progress.
“This is what matters to the department — making a difference in communities, improving safety, and delivering economic impact,” Kramer said. “We’re proud to be part of it and look forward to delivering more projects like this.”
Stretching nearly four miles, the expressway is among Nebraska’s largest recent infrastructure investments, and additional expansion plans are already being discussed between Grand Island and Kearney.
The new expressway officially opens to drivers on Wednesday.
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