Farnam Bridge to Close for Omaha Streetcar Project

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OMAHA, Neb. - Drivers who travel through midtown and downtown areas should prepare for another round of disruptions beginning next week. The city is set to demolish the Farnam Street bridge over I-480, which will cause significant changes in traffic patterns.

The closure on Farnam Street over the bridge will start on Monday. This marks the second bridge closure linked to the streetcar construction project. Last year, the Harney Bridge was demolished and replaced with a new structure designed to support the streetcar system. The same process will now take place at the Farnam Street bridge, which will be replaced as part of the ongoing infrastructure improvements.

The closure is expected to last until December, as the old bridge is removed and a new one is installed. This timeline means that drivers will need to find alternative routes for an extended period, potentially into late fall.

I-480 Weekend Closure

The actual demolition of the bridge is scheduled to occur over the weekend. During this time, I-480 will be completely closed as the bridge is torn down. Traffic will not be allowed underneath the bridge during the demolition process, making it necessary for drivers to avoid the area entirely.

The closure of I-480 is planned to take place from 9 p.m. on January 9 through 6 a.m. on January 12. However, the exact timing may be affected by weather conditions. The city will monitor the forecast and adjust the schedule if needed to ensure safety and efficiency.

Alternate Routes Available

During the closure of Farnam Street, drivers will have several alternate route options available. One option is to use Douglas Street as a substitute for Farnam Street. Another alternative is Dodge Street, which can help分流 traffic in the area.

For those traveling between downtown and midtown, an additional route involves heading down to St. Mary’s and then proceeding to Leavenworth. This route can provide a viable connection while the main bridge is under construction.

Drivers should be aware that Farnam Street will be closed starting on Monday and will likely remain closed until late fall. This extended period of disruption highlights the importance of planning ahead and being familiar with the alternate routes available.

As the city continues its efforts to modernize its infrastructure, these temporary closures are necessary steps toward long-term improvements. While the current disruptions may cause inconvenience, they are essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of the transportation network in Omaha.