It’s Time to Focus on the East Beltway

For years the Lincoln Independent Business Association (www.liba.org) has championed the need for Lincoln and Lancaster County to continue to invest in both the South Beltway and the East Beltway. Both projects are pivotal to the future growth and development of our city, as they provide critical infrastructure for the movement of heavy traffic around and throughout Lincoln. While we are glad to see the progress being made in pursuit of completing the South Beltway project, LIBA believes it is time to increase our focus on the East Beltway project.

The first efforts to secure land for the East Beltway project began in the early part of the millennium with local officials working to secure corridor designation for the roadway area. This designation allows city and county officials to purchase property from private owners in the area to protect it from development and ensure that the Beltway can be constructed. Lancaster County Engineer Pam Dingman estimates that purchasing the land, however, will cost the city and the county about $9 million each. LIBA urges city and county officials to focus on the financial needs of this project now so that future funding issues do not unnecessarily delay its completion.

The City of Lincoln has been making efforts to save funds for its portion of the East Beltway costs by setting aside $250,000 per year. Unfortunately, Lancaster County has not been able to do the same. While we understand that the County budget has faced repeated strains over the years and that the County has been working first to address funding issues related to the South Beltway, LIBA urges the County to take the time now to plan for funding the East Beltway project. Doing so early is critical to ensuring that the project stays on track in light of rising land valuations as the city continues to grow to the east.

LIBA applauds both the City of Lincoln and Lancaster County for their commitment to our future transportation infrastructure. LIBA agrees with the Lincoln Journal Star Editorial Board who recently stated that saving now for the East Beltway could “help avoid a spike in taxes that could be necessary if county government has to come up with money on a short-term basis.” LIBA urges County Commissioners to review their long-term financial plans, and we offer our support in efforts to make the East Beltway a staple of the County’s future plans.

Would you like to become a member of LIBA?  We would like to add your voice to our organization.  Business memberships are $275 a year. For more information on joining LIBA, please call me at (402) 466-3419.

You will also find more information about Lincoln Independent Business Association by visiting our web site www.liba.org.  Thank you!

LIBA studies and promotes these types of issues that are important to businesses and our community.  If you have an interest in joining LIBA, please call me at (402) 466-3419.  LIBA membership is not restricted to just businesses.  We also have “individual” memberships for those who want to help influence our local government decisions.