Cherry Avenue Bypass - Finally!

After several years of debate and efforts by numerous city, state, and federal officials the Cherry Avenue/I-80 Bypass officially opens Tuesday, August 27, 2013.  The new Interstate 80 exit, Exit 275, has been completed to 11th Street.  Future phases will go north to 56th Street and eventually to 78th Street and west to Highway 10.

This $56 million project will provide direct access to the Archway Monument, the Kearney Regional Airport, the Central Nebraska Veterans’ Home – Kearney, and the National Guard Transportation Battalion facility.  The project also includes a railroad overpass at Highway 30.

The City of Kearney appreciates all of the efforts of dedicated citizens, elected officials and state and federal transportation officials to make this project a reality.

Central Nebraska Veterans' Home

City of Kearney, Buffalo County, and Buffalo County Economic Development Council officials are proud to announce that Kearney has been selected as the site for the new Central Nebraska Veterans’ Home.  This new 330,000 square foot facility will cost an estimated $121,000,000 and will be located at the intersection of 56th Street and Cherry Avenue.  In addition to a state-of-the-art single story facility, local funding of $10,100,000 will provide for several improvements including paved and lit walking trails, water features, wood and ceramic shops, a chapel, a library, landscaping, garden areas, and a new Veterans’ Memorial.  Also included is long-term funding for employee recruitment, relocation, training, as well as scholarships to the University of Nebraska at Kearney and Central Community College.  In addition, the proposal provides significant operational savings through utility rate reductions, rebates, and snow removal services.  Finally, discretionary funds are included allowing for necessary improvements that may arise now and in the future due to design changes or higher costs. 

A local committee, referred to as the Project Honor Committee, is looking forward to the opportunity to personally meet with residents (members) and employees of the current home to further develop transition plans based on their input. The transition plans will include matching members of the home with local volunteers who will assist with whatever services are needed.

As the project develops, more information will be available as well as how to volunteer.  For additional information please contact the City Manager’s Office at (308) 233-3214 or   email citymanager@kearneygov.org