Hello, First Lutheran Friends,
I wanted to update you on the road closure of 70th Street near First Lutheran. Lincoln Transportation and Utilities posted this update on Tuesday on their Facebook page:
South 70th Street from “A” to South streets is now fully closed. A partial closure began on September 19 for private utility work to replace a fire sprinkler line for the Clock Tower Shopping Center. After finding pavement damage on both sides of the street, crews have temporarily closed the street. The project remains on schedule to be completed by Friday, September 30.
“Upon further inspection, it has been determined that this portion of South 70th Street needs to remain fully closed to allow crews to repair the street properly and efficiently. We appreciate the public’s patience as we work to ensure the street is safe,” said Harry Kroos, LTU Senior Engineering Technician.
Travelers are asked to access businesses in the area via “A” Street. South 70th Street is open between Sumner and South streets to local traffic only. The sidewalks on the west side of South 70th Street are closed. The recommended detour is South Street to South 56th Street to “A” Street.
Digital signs will alert traffic to upcoming work and closures. Travelers are encouraged to seek an alternate route and exercise caution around work zones. LTU appreciates the public’s patience during this work and reminds residents that project dates are subject to change due to weather and unforeseen circumstances.
We have learned from a city contact that this repair could take more than a couple of weeks. However, we should be able to continue holding worship and all other meetings and events during that time and have the access we need from 70th Street. (We are keeping the gate to the driveway between our parking lot and Clock Tower locked because the driveway is undriveable in its current condition.
The best route to First Lutheran is to drive north on 70th from South Street. At South Street, there are signs saying “Road Closed to Thru Traffic” and “Open to Local Business.” You have permission to drive through. At Sumner Street, drivers will need to continue in the northbound lanes and drive around the “Road Closed” signs. There are cones directing drivers at the left-hand turn into the First Lutheran parking lot.
We will update you should there be changes between now and the expected re-opening of 70th Street on September 30.
Grace + Peace,
Pastor Erin
