Designated Detour as Work Continues Along I-80 in Buffalo County

July 14, 2025 (Grand Island, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is announcing a designated detour route as work continues along I-80 near Elm Creek in Buffalo County. Currently, traffic is in head-to-head status amid ongoing construction. In the event of a crash or incident the detour is intended to maintain emergency access and reduce delays, while keeping construction crews and first responders safe.

If an incident occurs requiring a detour between mile marker 252 on I-80 west of Kearney and Exit 263, westbound and eastbound traffic will be diverted using Nebraska Highway 44 (N-44) South to U.S. Highway 34 (US-34) West and Nebraska Highway 23 (N-23) , then north on U.S. Highway 283 (US-283) and vice versa. (See attached map.) Traffic signs will be in place to divert traffic.

Work includes full depth concrete replacement of I-80 in the westbound direction of travel, two bridge widening and re-decks, and a box culvert will be built to replace a bridge. At US-183 and the Elm Creek Interchange there will be concrete joint sealing work, and the Elm Creek ramps will be replaced up to the gore. Additionally, guardrail work has begun along the project route.

Head-to-head traffic is anticipated to last until mid-November 2025, when it will return to normal operation with two lanes in each direction. Anticipated full completion of the project remains spring 2026.

Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and to put phones down.