NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — A major reconstruction project is planned for one of North Platte’s busiest roadways. The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) will invest an estimated $12.6 million to rebuild northbound U.S. Highway 83/South Dewey Street, a project aimed at improving safety, pavement conditions, and long-term mobility.
Scope of the Project
The project, identified as Leota–1st Street (C.N. 61360), covers about 1.07 miles of roadway, beginning at the north approach slab of the South Platte River bridge near mile marker 82.05 and extending north of 1st Street at mile marker 83.12. Construction could also extend up to 1,000 feet beyond the listed limits to allow for pavement transitions.
The work will include:
- Replacing the existing pavement with doweled concrete designed for durability.
- Removing and replacing the storm sewer system.
- Replacing driveways, curb ramps, lighting, and pavement markings.
- Eliminating some turn lanes as part of traffic flow updates.
- Reconstructing the east-side sidewalk to eight feet wide and maintaining a five-foot sidewalk on the west side.
- Evaluating and updating traffic signals, including the addition of flashing yellow arrows where appropriate.
The City of North Platte also intends to replace all water mains within the project limits before highway work begins.
Design and Traffic Flow
When complete, the roadway will feature a 42-foot clear driving surface with barrier curbs and an improved pedestrian corridor. Subgrade preparation and a four-inch foundation course will be placed beneath the new pavement for added strength.
NDOT said construction will occur under traffic, with lane closures and controlled access. Some intersections may be closed for several weeks during certain phases. While access to businesses and residences will be maintained, drivers and property owners should expect temporary limitations at times.
Right-of-Way and Property Impacts
The project will require the acquisition of additional property rights. This could include new right-of-way, temporary or permanent easements, and changes in access control. NDOT will contact affected property owners directly once the final design footprint is established.
Alternatives Considered
As part of the Leota Street Traffic Study, NDOT reviewed a series of intersection design options to improve traffic efficiency at Leota, Francis, and Jeffers Streets. Proposals included roundabouts, one-way street conversions, and changes to signal timing.
All were eliminated due to safety, constructability, or operational concerns. The final design maintains the current roadway alignment while upgrading signals and pedestrian facilities.
Traffic volumes along the corridor are projected to remain steady at approximately 10,780 vehicles per day, including commercial truck traffic, through at least 2048.
Timeline and Funding
Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2027 and finish by winter 2028, weather permitting.
The $12.6 million project will be funded through a combination of federal, state, and local sources.
Public Input
Residents may submit comments on the project through Sept. 24, 2025, at ndot.info/61360, by email to AJ Raaska at [email protected], or by mail to NDOT Public Involvement, P.O. Box 94759, Lincoln, NE 68509.
For more details, NDOT District 6 Engineer Cameron Craig can be reached at 308-535-8031.
Looking Ahead
If the project stays on schedule, the South Dewey Street corridor will be fully rebuilt within three years. NDOT officials said the upgrades are intended not only to repair existing pavement but also to prepare the route for decades of continued use by local residents, visitors, and freight traffic.