On Feb. 9, 2026, NPPD received the necessary Record of Decision from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for issuance of an Incidental Take Permit for the American burying beetle, which is necessary to build the R-Project. Next steps include mobilizing construction personnel and equipment to Nebraska, and right-of-way agents contacting landowners with signed easements so work can start in those areas.

Project construction is expected to take approximately two years.