April 1, 2026 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) has released its 2025 Annual Report, providing a summary of the agency’s efforts and accomplishments. Built around the NDOT’s eight strategic goals, the annual report documents the Department’s tangible results to improve Nebraska’s transportation system.
NDOT continues to prioritize safety by utilizing modern technology and emphasizing training
Coming off the deadliest year on Nebraska roads in nearly two decades with 251 fatalities in 2024, the NDOT has prioritized proactive approaches to save lives. While progress is being made, there were 228 fatalities on Nebraska roads, and 589 crashes in work zones in 2025. To address this, the NDOT is deploying Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) near work zones. Currently, the NDOT operates 50 AFAD sets to support construction and maintenance activities. The devices use highly visible signage, traffic signal heads, and automated flag arms to communicate stop and proceed instructions to drivers, while allowing traffic to be controlled remotely from a safe distance. Since deployment, 10 AFAD units have been hit by vehicles.
In addition, the NDOT has strengthened its Traffic Incident Management (TIM) program by expanding training opportunities for first responder agencies. In 2025, 952 responders completed TIM training, 52 new trainers were certified, 359 NDOT employees were trained, and 14 new NDOT TIM trainers were developed. TIM is a coordinated, multi-agency approach to managing roadway incidents. Effective TIM practices reduce congestion, limit secondary crashes, and improve safety for motorists, crash victims, and responders working in high-risk roadway environments.
NDOT takes on additional environmental responsibility to streamline project delivery
In July 2025, the NDOT submitted a letter of intent to pursue environmental review responsibilities for highway projects funded with federal aid. In February 2026, a Memorandum of Understanding with Gov. Jim Pillen, the Federal Highway Administration, and NDOT was signed, officially awarding Full NEPA Assignment. Nebraska is now one of nine states with the responsibility, streamlining the environmental review process to deliver vital road and infrastructure projects more efficiently.
NDOT works to deliver projects utilizing innovative and cost-effective solutions
As the NDOT continues to seek ways to improve project efficiency for the state’s most complex transportation projects, the agency has successfully implemented a process for collaborative delivery. In October 2025, the NDOT awarded its first alternative delivery preconstruction contract for the Saddle Creek Bridge project to replace the aging Dodge Street/Saddle Creek Road Overpass in Omaha’s Midtown area. In February 2026, the second alternative delivery preconstruction contract was awarded for the Red Cloud South Bridge project.
“Year after year, the NDOT is committed to finding innovative ways to provide the best possible transportation system for the movement of people and goods,” NDOT Director Vicki Kramer said. “By leveraging new technology, expanding safety training, and exploring innovative delivery methods, we continue to challenge ourselves to meet current and future transportation needs while protecting Nebraskans.”
To view the full 2025 Annual Report, click here or visit ndot.info/annual-report.
