Lincoln County residents will have an opportunity next month to learn more about a major transportation planning study and provide input on future transportation needs in and around North Platte.
Lincoln County will host a public open house for the Lincoln County Crossroads Planning and Environmental Linkages, or PEL, Study from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, September 17, at the Mid-Plains Community College North Platte South Campus Theatre, 601 West State Farm Road. A formal presentation is scheduled for 5:45 p.m.
The study is examining regional transportation and mobility solutions for highways in and around North Platte, with the goal of supporting local, regional and international trade routes through Lincoln County and Nebraska.
The study is focused on three areas: the West I-80 Interchange and Southwest Bypass, the Highway 30 North Bypass and the Buffalo Bill Road North Evacuation Route.
Lincoln County is working with JEO Consulting Group on the study. The PEL process combines transportation planning with environmental review and is being used to examine potential solutions before any decisions are made about future projects.
The study team is currently reviewing the project area, collecting traffic data, conducting a needs assessment and gathering public input.
The Crossroads Study began in spring 2026 and is expected to be completed in fall 2027.
County officials emphasize that no roadway alternatives have been determined at this point. There are also currently no plans for design or construction of improvements at the conclusion of the study.
The September 17 open house is intended to give residents an opportunity to learn about the study, identify transportation challenges and opportunities, and provide input as the planning process continues.
For more information, contact Lincoln County Commissioner Micaela Wuehler at 308-530-7338.