BEATRICE, Neb. - From Omaha to the panhandle, Nebraska roadways and firefighting capabilities could soon see improvements thanks to a federal appropriations bill moving through Congress.

U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer announced Thursday that she advanced over $60 million in funding to support infrastructure projects and firefighting capabilities across Nebraska. The funding was included in Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Act, which awaits consideration from the Senate.
 

"From roads and bridges to railways and airports — our infrastructure keeps Nebraska’s communities connected. It allows our farmers and ranchers to bring their goods to market and enables us to travel to work or school. By investing in infrastructure, we are investing in our future," Fischer said. "I’m proud to advance these critical investments which will improve our state’s infrastructure for Nebraska’s families and make our Good Life even better."

Support for Nebraska roadways includes:

  • $6 million to the Alliance Airport for electrical improvements
  • $6 million to add safety enhancements to the Heartland Expressway
  • $5.2 million to replace the Lisco Bridge in Garden County
  • $5 million to extend the runway and parallel taxiway at the Blair Airport
  • $4.7 million to pave a 4-mile stretch of Hickory Road in Gage County
  • $4 million to road improvements for Fairbury Highway 136
  • $4 million to improve the lighting system at the Hastings Airport
  • $3.5 million to improve walkability and safety of downtown Omaha
  • $3.4 million to complete the parallel taxiway and improve the lighting system at the Nebraska City Airport
  • $3.4 million to make improvements to roads in Sheridan and Garden County
  • $3.2 million to make roadway improvements on Cedar River Road in Garfield County
  • $2.2 million to reconstruct the 9th street roadway in Stromsburg
  • $897,000 to replace or repair multiple bridges in Brown County
  • $880,000 to pave the Adams Bypass
  • $700,000 to pave the roadway and improve access to the local grain elevator in Exeter
  • $600,000 to relocate the Midfield Connector Taxiway at Brenner Field Airport in Falls City

Support for Nebraska firefighting capabilities includes:

  • $2.5 million to replace South Sioux City’s aerial ladder fire truck
  • $1.8 million to replace Plattsmouth’s aerial ladder fire truck
  • $1.3 million to upgrade Friend’s fire hall facilities
  • $1.3 million to upgrade Clatonia’s fire hall facilities