Lincoln, Neb., Sept. 4, 2026 — Governor Jim Pillen joined officials from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Build America Bureau, the Federal Highway Administration, and the Nebraska Department of Transportation to announce a new initiative aimed at accelerating transportation projects across seven Nebraska counties. The project is backed by $5.15 million in federal funding.
The effort includes a $1.15 million Regional Infrastructure Accelerator grant to support the Accelerating Critical Connections for Elevating Livability in Nebraska program, as well as $2 million through the Innovative Finance and Asset Concession program and $2 million awarded in partnership with the Omaha-Council Bluffs Metropolitan Area Planning Agency.
ACCEL-NE will create a framework to increase efficiency in project delivery using alternative methods such as public-private partnerships. The program covers more than $6 billion in priority projects spanning Omaha, Lincoln, and surrounding areas. It aims to help local entities combine smaller projects and develop innovative funding strategies to speed infrastructure development.
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Federal Highway Administrator Sean McMaster emphasized the importance of innovative projects to improve mobility and safety. Build America Bureau Executive Director Morteza Farajian highlighted how the technical assistance grants will support Nebraska in addressing infrastructure challenges more quickly and cost-effectively.
Nebraska Department of Transportation Director Vicki Kramer noted ongoing efforts under Governor Pillen’s leadership to modernize NDOT business practices and accelerate construction on key corridors. The new funding will enable the department to match resources to known needs and enhance transportation system delivery.
Additional grants will support an asset study of projects in the Omaha metro area and a financial feasibility study of redevelopment plans near the I-480/Dodge Street interchange, known as “The Stitch.” These efforts will expand the use of alternative financing and delivery approaches across Nebraska’s infrastructure portfolio.
