Lincoln City Council Approved Waterford Trail Planning
Officials authorized design work for the 2.9-mile project as part of broader infrastructure and utility updates.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in City Hall
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The Lincoln City Council has approved a contract amendment for design and public engagement on the 2.9-mile Waterford Trail. The $3 million project, supported by 80% federal funding, will move forward following alignment changes necessitated by local topography and spillway requirements.
Why it matters
The authorization ensures that the Waterford Trail project continues to progress toward its design phase despite previous alignment challenges. These infrastructure decisions also align with ongoing citywide efforts to manage stormwater, update park facilities, and expand wastewater treatment capacity.
The council approved a design contract for the 2.9-mile Waterford Trail estimated at $3 million. Federal funding will cover 80% of the project costs, with neighborhood meetings scheduled for October 2026.
The details
The council also authorized engineering work for the Randolph Street rehabilitation project, which focuses on replacing a stormwater main to accommodate increased rainfall. Additionally, the city is pursuing $600,000 in grants to replace playgrounds at four local parks while planning a $19 million renovation for Antelope Park.
Timeline
August 2026: City budget adopted.
October 2026: Waterford Trail neighborhood and landowner meetings begin.
November 1, 2026: Antelope Park federal grant application due.
2026-27: City property tax levy period.
May 2027: Antelope Park federal grant decision expected.
Political Context
The council's decisions reflect ongoing debates regarding tax burden and infrastructure prioritization. Opposition typically highlights concerns over fiscal responsibility and the impact of the $0.29679 property tax rate on residents.
Residents will operate under a property tax levy of $0.29679 per $100 of assessed value throughout the 2026-27 period. These infrastructure projects aim to improve local park accessibility and storm drainage capacity, directly impacting neighborhood maintenance and community resources.
The takeaway
City planning efforts are currently focused on balancing major utility expansions with localized park and trail improvements. Residents should monitor upcoming neighborhood meetings to provide input on design changes that may affect their local areas.
What happens next
Neighborhood and landowner meetings for the Waterford Trail are scheduled to commence in October 2026, while the city awaits a decision on federal funding for the Antelope Park renovation in May 2027.
Further reading
For more information on municipal legislative updates, visit the City Hall section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Lincoln - KLIN - 1400 AM.
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