Midtown Crossing

bargainhunter · Post by **bargainhunter** » Mon Feb 22, 2010 1:31 pm

Parliament Pub's outdoor signage is up. The inside still looks like its pretty much studs & a little dry wall.

almighty_tuna · Post by **almighty_tuna** » Mon Feb 22, 2010 2:14 pm

bargainhunter wrote:The inside still looks like its pretty much studs & a little dry wall.

shooting for pub authenticity, i see!

Seth · Post by **Seth** » Mon Feb 22, 2010 10:26 pm

Since my wife and I will be living 4 blocks away from MTC when we move, I'm really hoping to see some everyday retail establishments announced. All the high-class trendy restaurants are great, but as a young couple saving for a home, our expenditures there will be limited. Additionally, with the apparent recent decline of Crossroads, I really don't want to drive 10 miles west just to go shopping. I am excited that there will be a grocery open by the time we're out there and as mentioned previously, the dry cleaners and gym are examples of the necessary neighborhood businesses.

the1wags · Post by **the1wags** » Mon Feb 22, 2010 11:01 pm

I was approached today about booth space at a weekly seasonal market in MTC. She said it will be a mix of farmers market, artists, crafts, etc.

Post by **Brad** » Mon Feb 22, 2010 11:06 pm

the1wags wrote:I was approached today about booth space at a weekly seasonal market in MTC. She said it will be a mix of farmers market, artists, crafts, etc.

Me too! I can't wait!

Seth · Post by **Seth** » Mon Feb 22, 2010 11:10 pm

the1wags wrote:I was approached today about booth space at a weekly seasonal market in MTC. She said it will be a mix of farmers market, artists, crafts, etc.

A farmer's market would be spectacular. I can't help but think it would do great with the emerging demographic in that neighborhood.

StreetsOfOmaha · Post by **StreetsOfOmaha** » Tue Feb 23, 2010 10:52 pm

Seth wrote:
the1wags wrote:I was approached today about booth space at a weekly seasonal market in MTC. She said it will be a mix of farmers market, artists, crafts, etc.
A farmer's market would be spectacular. I can't help but think it would do great with the emerging demographic in that neighborhood.

BIG yes!

the1wags · Post by **the1wags** » Tue Mar 02, 2010 2:26 am

Nothing great, but here's a pano I shot yesterday while briefly checking out MTC.

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Tue Mar 02, 2010 2:35 am

Sweet none-the-less

Post by **Brad** » Thu Mar 11, 2010 5:00 pm

Tru Salon and Spa opens

Email from Midtown Crossing wrote:FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Midtown Crossing at Turner Park is also proud to announce the opening of Tru Salon and Spa. This full-service hair and day salon, owned and operated by Jack and Stacey Tarr will officially open their doors Tuesday, March 16th and will feature more than 2,450 square feet of space at 32nd and Farnam Streets. The salon specializes in a variety of nail, hair, skin and body rejuvenation services. They also feature a unique color bar giving customers a customized, first-hand hair-color consultation experience.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Tru Salon and Spa to Midtown Crossing,” Cook said. “A full-service, upscale salon, Tru is a great addition to the neighborhood and a key element of the lifestyle Midtown Crossing offers.”

ShawJ · Post by **ShawJ** » Tue Mar 16, 2010 12:42 am

I decided to hold my tongue until the exteriors were complete before I judged too much. But now that it appears all of the exterior work is done at MTC, I'm pretty disappointed with how a lot this project turned out (exterior wise).

The front sides of the main 3 buildings that make the U are nice. But the small tan bricks really stick out in a bad way. On some of the buildings the doorways have these nice large stones (precast I think?) that match the other Mutual buildings perfectly. But then the small brick precast surrounds the rest of the building and they don't tie in well at all. The same goes for the front side of the main buildings compared to their sides and backs.

This is a great development and I understand cost was likely an issue, but I really wish they used some other material than those small tacky bricks.

Midtown Gal · Post by **Midtown Gal** » Tue Mar 16, 2010 1:46 pm

ShawJ wrote:I decided to hold my tongue until the exteriors were complete before I judged too much. But now that it appears all of the exterior work is done at MTC, I'm pretty disappointed with how a lot this project turned out (exterior wise).

The front sides of the main 3 buildings that make the U are nice. But the small tan bricks really stick out in a bad way. On some of the buildings the doorways have these nice large stones (precast I think?) that match the other Mutual buildings perfectly. But then the small brick precast surrounds the rest of the building and they don't tie in well at all. The same goes for the front side of the main buildings compared to their sides and backs.

This is a great development and I understand cost was likely an issue, but I really wish they used some other material than those small tacky bricks.

From their Facebook page:

How was the decision made to use the blonde brick façade for the development?
David Ertz from Cope Linder Architects said, “The selection of the exterior materials relates to the existing context of the Mutual of Omaha buildings. The design intent is to visually expand the project to the west by relating to the height, massing, vertical expression and coloration of the Mutual of Omaha structures, particularly along Farnam Street.” He continues, “These design efforts are meant to knit this project into the existing urban context, to visually create a larger ‘critical mass’ for the project by blurring its boundaries and to encourage discovery of how buildings can relate to each other.”

Seth · Post by **Seth** » Tue Mar 16, 2010 3:40 pm

I don't have any complaints about the appearance, in fact, if no one would have suggested that the light-colored bricks looked out-of-place, I wouldn't have even thought of it. I was very impressed when I was there in person and thought the mix of blonde brick, white stone, gray metal flashing and glass looked very sophisticated and contemporary without trying to be over-the-top. I'm optimistic that it will age well and won't look as dated 30 years from now as a lot of the modernist architecture from the 60s and 70s.

ShawJ · Post by **ShawJ** » Tue Mar 16, 2010 6:20 pm

Seth wrote:I don't have any complaints about the appearance, in fact, if no one would have suggested that the light-colored bricks looked out-of-place, I wouldn't have even thought of it. I was very impressed when I was there in person and thought the mix of blonde brick, white stone, gray metal flashing and glass looked very sophisticated and contemporary without trying to be over-the-top. I'm optimistic that it will age well and won't look as dated 30 years from now as a lot of the modernist architecture from the 60s and 70s.

I think my main problem is just how all of the different exteriors tie (or don't tie) in with each other. Here's an example from the facebook page:

They have great looking large stones for the garage but then they have the small tan bricks that look out of place. The contrast is more prominent in person. They also did this with some of the door ways. I think the material they used for the fronts of the 3 main buildings is nice, as well as these larger stones. It would have been cool if they continued with those materials throughout the whole project instead of the smaller bricks.

Oh well, it's a moot point anyway. Maybe I'm the only one who thinks this.

StreetsOfOmaha · Post by **StreetsOfOmaha** » Tue Mar 16, 2010 8:26 pm

I hear ya. I love the "stone" finish around some of the entryways, and visible in the photo above. It looks very quality and sophisticated. By comparison, the "bricks" just look cheep, and it's compounded by the fact that you can see the seems of the precast panels.

Bob from Omaha · Post by **Bob from Omaha** » Wed Mar 17, 2010 12:32 am

My mom went to the movie theater there last Saturday nite & said she had a good burger and fries with her movie. She didn't remember the name of the movie and said she didn't like it but she said the food was good & the theater was very nice. She found it weird that they parked in a garage but had to go outside to the theater. Of course she's 78 so consider the source.

TitosBuritoBarn · Post by **TitosBuritoBarn** » Wed Mar 17, 2010 6:12 pm

Bob from Omaha wrote: She found it weird that they parked in a garage but had to go outside to the theater. Of course she's 78 so consider the source.

I found that odd too. I figured the garage and theatre were connected, but they weren't. You have to go to the ground floor and walk over to the theatre. And then getting up to the box office is a bit confusing too. There are two computerized ticket machines on the first floor, but no signs saying that the box office, concessions, or even the theatres were then up two or three flights of escalators. It's an awesome theatre experience once you figure out how to get around though.

GetUrban · Post by **GetUrban** » Wed Mar 17, 2010 9:01 pm

TitosBuritoBarn wrote:
Bob from Omaha wrote: She found it weird that they parked in a garage but had to go outside to the theater. Of course she's 78 so consider the source.
I found that odd too. I figured the garage and theatre were connected, but they weren't. You have to go to the ground floor and walk over to the theatre. And then getting up to the box office is a bit confusing too. There are two computerized ticket machines on the first floor, but no signs saying that the box office, concessions, or even the theatres were then up two or three flights of escalators. It's an awesome theatre experience once you figure out how to get around though.

That is kind of a strange arrangement from a convenience point of view, but on the other hand it increases foot traffic along the street, which is a good thing. The whole development is done in a way that will make the streets in the area more lively, and less introverted than a typical mall-type garage/theater prototype.

nativeomahan · Post by **nativeomahan** » Thu Mar 18, 2010 10:26 pm

Omaha Performing Arts' Jazz on the Green Moves to Midtown Crossing at Turner Park
OMAHA, NEB. – (March 18, 2010) – Jazz on the Green, Omaha’s popular outdoor music series, will find
a new home at Turner Park, the centerpiece of the Midtown Crossing development, at 31st and Dodge
streets.

In January, Omaha Performing Arts announced that it would adopt the 25-year-old jazz concert
series from Joslyn Art Museum, looking to expand the event’s reach in the community. Now, with
sponsorship from three leading Omaha businesses and a new partnership with Midtown Crossing at
Turner Park, Jazz on the Green has found a larger, centrally located home. This change of venue
ensures the future of the Omaha favorite while enhancing the audience experience.

“The opportunity to present Jazz on the Green in such an ideal outdoor space just made sense
for everyone, from the performers to the patrons,” said Joan Squires, president of Omaha Performing
Arts. “We’re grateful to all of our sponsors and partners for helping to ensure this event remains an
Omaha favorite for years to come.” Sponsors for the event include Blue Cross Blue Shield, Mutual of
Omaha and Omaha Steaks.

"This is exactly the type of community event we had in mind for Turner Park when we decided to
expand and improve the public space adjacent to the Midtown Crossing development," said Ken Cook,
president of East Campus Realty, the Mutual of Omaha subsidiary that owns Midtown Crossing. "The
location is perfect, the parking is plentiful and we look forward to watching this series grow."

Mayor Jim Suttle said, “Jazz on the Green has been a part of the Omaha arts and entertainment
scene for many years and has been a perennial family favorite. The City of Omaha is proud that this
tradition is continuing at the beautifully re-designed Turner Park.”

In its new location, fans of Omaha Performing Arts Presents Jazz on the Green at Midtown
Crossing at Turner Park will continue to enjoy perks such as free admission and the ability to bring their
own refreshments to the concerts. Ample and conveniently located parking will be available in the new
location. Complete series details with dates and performers will be announced later this spring.

Excellent!

Post by **Brad** » Fri Mar 19, 2010 3:51 pm

Not sure what to make of this review. In my book I am going for the movie and the food is a bonus, but a food critic is going for the food, not the movie.

Review: CineDine not Oscar-worthy yet

http://www.omaha.com/article/20100319/E ... worthy-yet

Nichole Aksamit World-Herald Staff Writer wrote:In short, CineDine in its present state isn't my cup of tea.

I realize, however, that I'm only a small sliver of the general movie-going audience.

Virtually every mom I know who's been to the new theater seems to enjoy the dinner-during-the-movie experience — either because it allows her a quicker night out (and half the usual sitter cost) or because she's used to being interrupted.

Big E · Post by **Big E** » Fri Mar 19, 2010 4:05 pm

Her reviews are always comparing the places to what she thinks they should be, versus what places are trying to be. Not that she isn't spot on with a lot of her assessments, she just thinks everything should be on par with Flatiron and Boiler Room.

That being said, I agree... the food is neither great nor terrible, a helluva lot nicer than $9 popcorn and Twizzlers, and a nice bonus to the theater experience. I simply refuse to go anywhere else now.

Seth · Post by **Seth** » Fri Mar 19, 2010 4:12 pm

I just think it's great that you can have a beer or glass of wine for the same price of a Coke at any other theater.

StreetsOfOmaha · Post by **StreetsOfOmaha** » Sat Mar 20, 2010 5:45 pm

Bingo! Exactly. You can't beat being able to have a beer or glass of wine while enjoying the theater experience. And as you mentioned, it's so affordable!

nativeomahan · Post by **nativeomahan** » Sat Mar 20, 2010 7:44 pm

We think that the current version of cine-dine is a joke. They could make it work, by offering tapas, wine and cheese pairings, and other finger foods. But who wants to eat regular food in the dark? Half the enjoyment of food is visual. If you can't see it then it ought to make up for that shortcoming by tasting really really good.

nativeomahan · Post by **nativeomahan** » Sat Mar 20, 2010 7:46 pm

Big E wrote:Her reviews are always comparing the places to what she thinks they should be, versus what places are trying to be. Not that she isn't spot on with a lot of her assessments, she just thinks everything should be on par with Flatiron and Boiler Room.

That being said, I agree... the food is neither great nor terrible, a helluva lot nicer than $9 popcorn and Twizzlers, and a nice bonus to the theater experience. I simply refuse to go anywhere else now.

That is not a correct reading of Nichole's reviews. She wants the customer to get value for the money they shell out, and for whatever type of food the restaurant serves to be worthy of eating. You don't have to pay $50 for a meal to get great food. Check out her review of Worker's Sandwiches. She loved it, and they only cost about $6.

thenewguy · Post by **thenewguy** » Sun Mar 21, 2010 12:08 am

nativeomahan wrote:We think that the current version of cine-dine is a joke. They could make it work, by offering tapas, wine and cheese pairings, and other finger foods. But who wants to eat regular food in the dark? Half the enjoyment of food is visual. If you can't see it then it ought to make up for that shortcoming by tasting really really good.

We don't think it's a joke. I gotta go with Big E on this one: it's the first theatre we look up when we want to go to a movie. Granted, we still go to starcinema once in a while, but as parents of a 7 month old, our time is limited when we go out. Having dinner while we see a movie saves time and is very reasonable when compared to a regular restaurant. For me, 1/2 the enjoyment of food isn't visual. Granted, how nicely prepared food is does make a difference but in the end it's about the texture, temperature, and taste. The food is on par with applebees and the likes, which is what we expected going in. I love food and have my particulars about it, and i think its decent. But to each their own.

Hard to believe that this place can be so polarizing

nativeomahan · Post by **nativeomahan** » Sun Mar 21, 2010 12:47 am

Having dinner while I eat saves time, too.

Maybe they could extend this trend into churches. It sure would save time, the lighting would be better, and it might even increase attendance.

StreetsOfOmaha · Post by **StreetsOfOmaha** » Sun Mar 21, 2010 1:29 am

That is a hilarious visual. Thank you.

Now that you mention it, I'm almost surprised this doesn't exist already.

thenewguy · Post by **thenewguy** » Sun Mar 21, 2010 9:20 am

nativeomahan wrote:Having dinner while I eat saves time, too.

Maybe they could extend this trend into churches. It sure would save time, the lighting would be better, and it might even increase attendance.

Fixed it. I feel sheepish

nativeomahan · Post by **nativeomahan** » Mon Mar 22, 2010 3:52 am

Praise the lord and pass the biscuits...

Post by **Brad** » Wed Mar 24, 2010 5:51 pm

I got this in an email today. The emailer thought that some of you would find it interesting.

Nick M via Email wrote:Have you ever noticed that the design of Midtown Crossing is striking similar to the iconic Royal Crescent property in Bath, England. See the attached pictures as well as the Wiki entry:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Crescent

Stargazer · Post by **Stargazer** » Wed Mar 24, 2010 7:14 pm

I'm not sure I would use the term... strikingly similar. They both share the same basic curving concept and are adjacent green space. Surely there must be numerous other examples of this.

Erik · Post by **Erik** » Wed Mar 24, 2010 7:52 pm

Stargazer wrote:I'm not sure I would use the term... strikingly similar. They both share the same basic curving concept and are adjacent green space. Surely there must be numerous other examples of this.

I don't know.. I had to take a double take and really search hard to make sure I wasn't seeing midtown in that picture. :mrgreen:

Choleric · Post by **Choleric** » Thu Mar 25, 2010 2:48 am

Stargazer wrote:I'm not sure I would use the term... strikingly similar. They both share the same basic curving concept and are adjacent green space. Surely there must be numerous other examples of this.

There are.

Just about every other block in Edinburgh and I am sure in similar cities through out Europe. Not exactly a new concept.

Seth · Post by **Seth** » Thu Mar 25, 2010 3:42 am

Choleric wrote:Not exactly a new concept.

But an excellent one.

guy4omaha · Post by **guy4omaha** » Thu Mar 25, 2010 2:54 pm

My wife and I love CineDine as well. It is our favorite moviehouse in town. The food is average for the most part but the pizza is very good and unique to most other offerings we've had locally. We really like going to a movie with food that is priced reasonable and having beer and wine and mixed drinks and food and appetizers before, during and after the movie. The theatres with the different lounges is very relaxing to us. We're at that stage in life now, we don't have to hurry for much anything anymore. Yes.

Post by **Brad** » Mon Mar 29, 2010 6:47 pm

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony to be held in Midtown Crossing at Turner Park

Midtown Crossing Via Email wrote:When I Tuesday, May 18, 11 am

What I Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony inaugurating the grand opening of the
Midtown Crossing development and newly revitalized Turner Park

Governor Dave Heineman, Mayor Jim Suttle, Mutual of Omaha Chairman and CEO
Dan Neary, President of East Campus Realty, LLC, Kenneth Cook, local
dignitaries and officials, and community leaders will gather to mark this
historic grand opening occasion and celebrate this vibrant new Midtown
community

Where I West end of Turner Park, 31st Ave. and Farnam St.

Post by **Brad** » Thu Apr 01, 2010 3:28 pm

Midtown Crossing via Email wrote:FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

First Presbyterian Church to hold Easter Egg Hunt in Turner Park

Omaha, Neb. – First Presbyterian Church of Omaha will hold their

first annual Easter egg hunt in Midtown Crossing’s Turner Park this

Saturday, April 3, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. The event will be emceed by KETV’s

Mike’l Severe.

Volunteers with First Presbyterian Church, located just south of

Turner Park at 34th and Farnam Streets, are gearing up for one of the

first community-wide events to be held in the 7-acre, expanded and newly

revitalized park. “Members of our congregation are thrilled to be

organizing this community-centered Easter event in the park and hope it

will become a much-anticipated tradition for years to come,” said Reverend

A. David Paul, Associate Pastor for Discipleship and Care. “And what a

perfect time to ring in the new Spring season.”

Volunteers will be serving hot and cold refreshments and snacks and

Midtown Crossing will be providing prizes during this early Spring event.

Midtown Crossing at Turner Park is a 15-acre, mixed-use urban

development in the heart of Omaha’s historic Midtown neighborhood. Built

around an expanded and revitalized Turner Park, the million-square-foot

development includes nearly 500 condominium and apartment units as well as

more than 220,000 square feet for restaurants, retailers and entertainment

venues along with parking for more than 3,000 vehicles.

Plans are currently under way for a summer-wide series of festive

Grand Opening celebrations including a weekly upscale outdoor market, live

entertainment, demonstrations, community events and special gatherings.

guitarguy · Post by **guitarguy** » Thu Apr 01, 2010 3:40 pm

Wow I love how many community events are going to take place in this park! if they keep this up maybe all those restaurants will survive haha

-adam

Post by **Brad** » Tue Apr 13, 2010 2:42 am

All the windows are covered with who their tenant will be. Its cool to drive around in there and see. There are also thousands of yellow flowers in bloom.

The Blanc Burgers and Ingredients photos did not turn out. There was a security guard tailing me and I didn't slow down to shoot the photo.

1.

2.

3. This photo sucks too

4.