Permanent Protected Bikeway Planned; Harney Route to Close in September
The Market-to-Midtown Bikeway on Harney Street in Omaha will close on September 3, following Labor Day, as utility companies begin construction related to the Omaha streetcar project. This closure comes after the pilot program for the bikeway ended in 2022, although it remained operational thanks to donor support. Mayor Jean Stothert stated that closing the bikeway is necessary for the safety of cyclists, pedestrians, and construction workers. A new, permanent protected bikeway is in the design phase, which will incorporate valuable feedback from the pilot program. This bikeway will run on the south side of Farnam Street and connect to Harney Street, ensuring a safer experience for users.
Funding for the project combines public and philanthropic dollars, with an estimated $7. 6 million allocated in the proposed Capital Improvement Plan for 2025-2030. The aim is to create Omaha's first truly multi-modal corridor, integrating streetcars, buses, and other transit options. The city anticipates completion of the new bikeway by 2028, emphasizing the importance of careful planning for major urban projects.