Schemmer's Mark Lutjeharms, P.E., PTOE, and Pat Birch, AIA, LEED AP, were in attendance as Lincoln’s Mayor Chris Beutler held a dedication ceremony on Thursday, October 29, 2015, celebrating the improvements along the route from the airport to downtown. The improvements include illuminated district markers, banners and public art, as well as nearly 800 trees, 50,000 perennials and native grasses. The final plantings will be completed next spring.
The $4.2 million project included repairing and resurfacing the existing pavement and constructing new curbs, storm drainage inlet tops and curb ramps. The improvements start at the airport and stretch along West Adams Street, Cornhusker Highway and Interstate 180.
"This new entryway is part of our larger overall strategy to enhance Lincoln's image to visitors and employers, to increase the area's economic development potential and to improve the area's infrastructure," said Mayor Beutler. "This project is yet another example of a public-private partnership, with more than $1.6 million donated by visionary supporters in the private sector who recognized the need to improve our first impression." A portion of the streetscape funding and all of the endowment to maintain the improvements came from 18 private sector donors.
Schemmer prepared construction documents for a streetscape master plan developed by the Lincoln Parks & Recreation Department and made recommendations, in addition to designing plans for the prioritization of pavement repairs. The success of this project plays a significant role in the economic revitalization of the corridor between the Lincoln airport and points of Lincoln south and east of the I-80 and Cornhusker Highway interchange. Schemmer also provided the final design for this project.
“It’s all about creating a great first impression and helping people feel welcome the moment they arrive at the airport and as they make their way to downtown Lincoln,” said Nicole Fleck-Tooze, special projects administrator for Lincoln Parks and Recreation.
Click here to visit Schemmer's Lincoln Airport Entry portfolio page and view photos.
Mayor Chris Beutler speaks at the dedication ceremony for the Lincoln Airport entry improvements.
Illuminated district markers
