Lincoln Trail Extension to Begin Construction
A new 2.2-mile ADA-compliant trail will connect southeast Lincoln to the city's main network starting this November.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Hiking
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Lincoln begins construction on the 2.2-mile Beal Slough Trail Extension on November 16, 2026. This project creates a new connection between southeast neighborhoods and the city's main trail network.
Why it matters
The $2.5 million development improves regional mobility by linking residents to active transportation corridors. The route is designed to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards to ensure access for residents with mobility limitations.
The project represents a $2.5 million capital investment supported by an 80% federal grant and 20% local impact fee structure. The full scope of the extension and potential secondary connectivity projects remain under city evaluation.
The players
Lincoln Parks and Recreation
The local agency responsible for managing the city's greenways, public parks, and trail network infrastructure.
The details
The trail extension follows a 2.2-mile path through the Beal Slough greenway and drainage corridor. Construction includes installing new culverts and utilizing existing underpasses beneath Pine Lake Road to provide a safe, grade-separated route. The project runs from South 56th Street and London Road to South 70th Street and Yankee Hill Road, passing through Jonathan Gapp Park.
Timeline
November 16, 2026: Construction on the trail extension begins.
September 2027: A large portion of the project is expected to be completed.
Health Landscape
This project aligns with the national shift toward expanding non-motorized trail networks to promote community-wide physical activity. It follows the pattern of federal-local partnership funding established by the Transportation Alternatives Program.
The new trail will provide a safe, ADA-accessible environment for walking and cycling in southeast Lincoln. Residents should monitor local project updates to identify potential temporary detours near Pine Lake Road during the construction window.
The takeaway
Expanding trail networks is a proven strategy for increasing daily physical activity among diverse populations. Residents are encouraged to track the project's progress to plan future routes that incorporate this new accessible pathway.
Further reading
Learn more about local pedestrian infrastructure and upcoming recreational developments on the Lincoln Hiking page.
More information
View project updates and official city maps on the Lincoln trails information portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Lincoln - KLIN - 1400 AM.
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