This article provides an update on the upcoming infrastructure improvements planned for Calvert Street intersections in Lincoln, Nebraska, focusing on enhancing traffic flow, pedestrian accessibility, and overall transportation system efficiency.
Project Overview: Enhancing Mobility at Calvert Street and Key Intersections
The City of Lincoln is set to undertake a vital project aimed at modernizing the intersections of South 48th Street and Calvert Street, as well as South 56th Street and Calvert Street. This initiative addresses the critical need to replace aging traffic signal infrastructure and bring intersection controls up to current city standards. The primary goals are to improve the daily commutes for drivers, enhance pedestrian safety, and ensure the transportation system operates reliably and efficiently.
Addressing Infrastructure Needs and Improving Accessibility
The existing traffic signal systems at these Calvert Street intersections have reached the end of their operational lifespan. This project is essential to replace this outdated infrastructure and ensure compliance with the latest City of Lincoln guidelines and specifications for intersection management. Furthermore, a key component of this project is to significantly improve pedestrian crossings to meet the current accessibility standards outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This will ensure safer and more convenient crossings for all pedestrians, including those with disabilities.
Scope of Work: Modernization and Roundabout Integration on Calvert Street
The project encompasses distinct improvements at each intersection:
South 48th Street and Calvert Street: Traffic Signal Modernization
At the intersection of South 48th Street and Calvert Street, the project will involve a complete overhaul of the traffic signal system. This includes the removal of old signal poles and related equipment, and the installation of new, modern traffic signal infrastructure. To ensure full ADA compliance, sidewalk and curb ramp reconstruction will also be undertaken. The necessary grading work will involve ground disturbance for the installation of new signal poles, a signal cabinet pad, pull boxes, conduits, and other related signal infrastructure.
South 56th Street and Calvert Street: Roundabout Conversion and Infrastructure Upgrades
The approach at South 56th Street and Calvert Street will be more transformative. Here, the existing traffic signals will be removed entirely, and the intersection will be converted into a roundabout. This modern traffic management solution is proven to enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion. Similar to the other intersection, sidewalk and curb ramp reconstruction will be performed to meet ADA standards. The grading work at this location is more extensive due to the roundabout construction and will involve ground disturbance to reconstruct affected subsurface utilities, including storm sewer, sanitary sewer, and water main lines. Above-ground utilities like streetlights, fire hydrants, and pull boxes will also be upgraded as needed.
Project Funding and Timeline
This important infrastructure project is made possible through a combination of federal and local funding, demonstrating a commitment to improving Lincoln’s transportation network. Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin as early as the summer of 2027, with an anticipated completion date in the fall of 2028.
Navigating Construction: Access and Detours on Calvert Street
During construction, access to the Calvert Street intersections will be managed to minimize disruption.
South 48th Street and Calvert Street Access
Improvements at the South 48th Street and Calvert Street intersection will be conducted while maintaining traffic flow. Lane closures will be implemented and managed using appropriate traffic control devices and practices. Pedestrian traffic will be accommodated with temporary sidewalk detours, utilizing Sherman Street, Hillside Street, Calvert Street, Bancroft Avenue, Prescott Avenue, South 46th Street, South 48th Street, South 51st Street, and South 52nd Street.
South 56th Street and Calvert Street Access
The construction at South 56th Street and Calvert Street, due to the roundabout conversion, will require a full closure of the intersection. Detours will be clearly marked, directing traffic via South 56th Street, South 70th Street, Pioneers Boulevard, Van Dorn Street, and Normal Boulevard. Sidewalk detours for pedestrians will utilize Sherman Street, South 51st Street, Calvert Street, South 52nd Street, and Bancroft Avenue.
Community Involvement: Public Meeting and Comment Period
The City of Lincoln values community input and is holding a public information open house meeting to discuss this project:
Public Meeting Details:
- Date: February 11, 2025
- Time: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- Location: Holmes Golf Course Clubhouse, 3701 S. 70th St., Lincoln, NE 68506
Meeting Materials:
The public comment period is open from January 23, 2025, to February 27, 2025. Residents are encouraged to attend the meeting and provide feedback.
Project Contact
For any questions or further information regarding the Calvert Street Intersection Improvement Project, please refer to the contact details provided on the project website.
