NORFOLK, Neb. -- On Friday, the Nebraska State Highway Commission approved the state’s first bond issuance for a state highway project.

The vote allows the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) to issue bonds to pay for the expressway corridor on US Highway 275 to be completed.

The use of bonds to speed up critical infrastructure projects, like those that are prioritized under the 2011 Build Nebraska Act, was enabled when LB 727 was passed in 2023. 

The expressway corridor is necessary to improve safety, support regional industries like agriculture and manufacturing, and enhance access to markets and national freight networks.

In a press release it was stated that this project underscores the state’s commitment to advancing infrastructure to improve quality of life and drive economic competitiveness.

“The completion of the Scribner – West Point corridor along the US-275 was a win for Nebraska, but there’s more work ahead,” said Gov. Jim Pillen. “Local communities have long supported this expressway, understanding the safety improvements and economic benefits it brings. I have directed NDOT to condense the timeline to complete the corridor.”

NDOT Director Vicki Kramer emphasized the impact of the vote: “NDOT is using a fiscally conservative method to secure resources, safeguarding the schedule of the US-275 corridor. Innovative finance, bonding in this scenario, is a tool that can be leveraged to expedite project schedules, delivering needed safety and capacity improvements to communities. While this bond issuance will finance a portion of the corridor, it's important to state - bonding is not a revenue source but rather a financing tool. I’m thankful for the support of the Pillen Administration, Senator Moser and the NDOT team for making today a reality.”

“With major employers and heavy truck traffic, completing the US-275 corridor is essential to supporting industries like steelmakers, manufacturers and farmers," said Commissioner David Copple of Norfolk. "This vital infrastructure will drive economic growth and strengthen connections to healthcare, education and major markets.”