Overview

A viaduct structure has existed in the location of the Harris Overpass since the 1880s, evidence of this longtime vital link in Lincoln's roadway system. The first viaduct had a wooden deck, steel beams and touched down at 8th Street and 3rd Street.

The existing structure is a riveted, steel-plate girder style that was built in the 1950s and named for John F. Harris of Lincoln, in gratitude for a gift of land that became Pioneers Park.

While the overpass is still safe to serve current traffic and weight loads, it is deteriorating and exceeding its functional life. Because of this, it qualifies for federal bridge replacement funds.

As the engineering and architectural design continues in 2006, we will have a good idea of what the new bridge will look like and how its construction will affect the area. Construction is tentatively planned to begin in late 2007 and could last up to a year.

Replacing the Harris Overpass will have major effects on the Haymarket, West "O" Street and Downtown Lincoln. Because of this, the City's bridge design consultant team led by The Schemmer Associates is conducting an extensive public participation program in concert with the design process.

Public participation will also address the opportunities presented by this project, including the aesthetic opportunities to tie it in with the Haymarket, Downtown and West "O" Street.