Escalating costs forced reductions in the park originally planned for the Nebraska side of the Bob Kerrey Bridge. We assisted Omaha by coordinating a fund raising effort to expand the Park’s amenities. We were successful – fifteen private donors and foundations partnered with us to fund the additional improvements.
This new funding allowed for the construction of a plaza – with a water spray park. A graded, sloped lawn, retaining walls and connector walks were added along with a display of public art. And the first Riverfront BCycle station was located here. As originally hoped, the park became a popular gathering area for bridge visitors. Eventually, a stage was added to the Plaza and the walls, steps and slope became a small performance area.
Project Partners: Richard Holland, 1st National Bank, America 1st, Sherwood Foundation, City of Omaha and others.
Estimated Financial Support: Back to the River – $200,000
Estimated Total Project Cost: $1,800,000
Year: 2009
