Lincoln to Begin $2.5 Million Trail Extension

Construction on the 2.2-mile project will officially begin on November 16, 2026.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Hiking

Lincoln to Begin $2.5 Million Trail Extension

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Lincoln will break ground on a $2.5 million extension of the Beal Slough Trail on November 16, 2026. This 2.2-mile path will connect southeast neighborhoods to the city's broader trail network.

Why it matters

The project integrates the Beal Slough greenway into the city's primary infrastructure, significantly improving accessibility for residents with mobility limitations. It effectively bridges the gap between residential areas and public green spaces.

The 2.2-mile trail extension utilizes existing underpasses beneath Pine Lake Road and is built to Americans with Disabilities Act standards. Funding for the $2.5 million project is split between the federal Transportation Alternatives Program and local parks impact fees.

The details

The route traverses the Beal Slough drainage corridor and passes directly through Jonathan Gapp Park, extending from South 56th Street and London Road to South 70th Street and Yankee Hill Road. Construction crews will install new culverts alongside existing infrastructure to ensure the path remains accessible.

Construction on the trail extension begins November 16, 2026.
A large portion of the project is expected to be completed by September 2027.

Culture Shift

This project reflects a growing commitment to inclusive urban design that prioritizes accessibility within municipal greenway planning. By adhering to the Americans with Disabilities Act standards, the city is moving away from legacy trail designs that often limited access for those with mobility constraints.

Residents in southeast Lincoln can expect improved connectivity to public parks and the citywide trail network once construction concludes. The design ensures that individuals with limited mobility will have barrier-free access to the new 2.2-mile corridor.

The takeaway

The addition of this trail segment demonstrates how federal funding can be leveraged to expand local outdoor infrastructure. Hikers and commuters alike should prepare for construction activity near the Beal Slough corridor starting in late 2026.