LINCOLN -- After more than 20 years of planning and work, the Antelope Valley Project is essentially completed. It's resulted in better flood control along the Antelope Creek basin in the middle of Lincoln, along with revitalizing a section of central Lincoln close to downtown and UNL's City Campus. Mayor Chris Beutler says finding a solution to several problems required, in his words, a broad and bold vision. Lower Platte South Natural Resources District general manager Glenn Johnson says a serious flood threat to a large area of central Lincoln has been eliminated, creating opportunities for economic development, recreation and open green space. Traffic improvements also have been made as a result of the project, including the elevated "Big X" intersection of Antelope Valley Parkway and Salt Creek Roadway near the Devaney Center. Union Plaza was created as a result of the project. A special grand opening celebration for the Union Plaza is scheduled for next Thursday at 5pm.
View of the west side of Union Plaza near 21st and "P" Street. (Jeff Motz/KFOR News)