Friday Night Kickoff, 400th Sellout Brings More Traffic to Gameday Travel

Sept. 20, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) — With a rare Friday night kickoff and Nebraska football’s 400th consecutive sellout, the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) reminds drivers to expect to see an increase in traffic, especially during the evening work commute.

When traveling to Lincoln, fans need to continue to be prepared for heavier traffic and road construction along the way. Drivers should allow more time to get to their destination and be ready for more than normal traffic on the roadways during the drive home from work. NDOT reminds travelers that construction is active for the following areas:

Hwy 77 and Hwy 109 Junction near Wahoo. This is a one lane, head-to-head traffic pattern with a
reduced speed limit.

I-80 from the Elm Creek interchange (MM 252) to the Odessa interchange (MM 264). This is a one lane,
head-to-head traffic pattern with a 65 miles per hour speed limit, zipper merge when necessary.

I-80 from the Lexington interchange (MM 237) to the Overton interchange (MM 248). This is reduced to
one lane, each direction, with a 65 miles per hour speed limit, zipper merge when necessary.

I-80 from the Pleasant Dale interchange (MM 388) to NW 48th Street interchange (MM 395) in Lincoln.

The speed limit is 65 miles per hour in this construction zone.

Additionally, use caution when coming into Lincoln on Interstate 180 (I-180). Due to hotel construction near Memorial Stadium, I-180 will have lane restrictions to accommodate pedestrian traffic as you arrive in downtown Lincoln. Watch for pedestrians and heavy traffic throughout the afternoon hours and as kickoff approaches.

With the third straight kickoff slated for evening hours, NDOT reminds people to designate a sober driver or find a sober ride if their gameday enjoyment includes drinking. Just as importantly, remember to buckle up before you leave and put the phone down. Before leaving to enjoy the game, set your favorite navigation app with your destination, this is a great resource for traffic updates.

For more information about construction projects and lane closures, check 511 Nebraska and the Lincoln Transportation and Utilities website, Facebook or X. For gameday information, visit the Husker’s website.

When coming to the game:

Drivers arriving in Lincoln on I-80 from the west should take Exit 397 (south U.S. Highway 77 (US-77) to Rosa Parks Way into downtown Lincoln.

Drivers arriving in Lincoln on I-80 from the east should take Exit 401 to south Interstate 180 (I-180) into downtown Lincoln.

When leaving the game:

Drivers should avoid Exit 409 between Lincoln and Waverly as it may be closed due to safety concerns as heavy interstate traffic builds. This may significantly increase traffic on US-6 and cause slowdowns.

Leaving downtown Lincoln immediately after the game can put you in heavy traffic. Spending some extra time in town may allow traffic to ease up and provide a smoother ride home.