(The Center Square) – Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert announced two state investments in North Omaha this week.
The state gave a $89.2 million grant to the Omaha Economic Development Corporation to create a business park near Eppley Airfield. Nebraska also gave $35 million to the City of Omaha to build a multipurpose community center at Levi Carter Park.
“Omaha has developed into a dynamic hub of industry here in the Heartland, and today’s investments are going to accelerate its growth, especially in the North Omaha community,” Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen said. “The amazing success of our state’s largest city is attracting entrepreneurs, professional talent, and young families to Nebraska. As people and businesses flock to Omaha, we’re investing in first-rate community amenities and industrial sites to continue the metro’s strong momentum.”
Pillen offered praise for civic, business and economic leaders for their partnership and collaboration with state agencies. He also said he supports Omaha creating an Inland Port Authority near the airport to, “coordinate public and private investments,” according to a release.
Mayor Stothert also praised the cooperative approach.
“These are important investments in North Omaha,” Mayor Stothert said. “Together with our state and local partners, we will provide impactful and long-term opportunities for employment, development, and youth services.”
The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) gave a $89.2 million grant to the Omaha Economic Development Corporation via the Airport Business Park Program. The grant will fund site preparation of the land for the proposed business park.
“The two-part project will consist of a site west of Carter Lake with land primarily devoted to industrial use and a site north of Carter Lake—connected to Levi Carter Park—with a mix of commercial and industrial uses,” a release said. “The project’s proximity to Eppley Airfield will make it highly attractive to aviation-related businesses, warehouse/logistics companies, and manufacturers looking for greater supply chain efficiencies.”
DED also gave the City of Omaha a $35 million grant through the Multipurpose Community Facilities Program. Omaha will use it to build a 90,000-square-foot community facility to serve Omaha residents, especially those in the northeastern part of the city. The city will own it and operate it as a non-profit facility.