Gene Leahy Mall Remodel

Flyer14 · Post by **Flyer14** » Mon Jul 04, 2022 9:00 pm

We moved into the area almost three years ago. The park has been closed the whole time. We went down on opening night and it was truly increíble. Well worth the wait! The energy from the amount of people there was tremendous, I hope it’s something they can replicate time and time again, when the entire riverfront project wraps up it will truly be one of kind.

lisanstan · Post by **lisanstan** » Mon Jul 04, 2022 9:07 pm

I was in the park on Saturday and the free wifi was working.

Post by **Brad** » Mon Jul 04, 2022 11:33 pm

Great fireworks tonight!

MahaBman · Post by **MahaBman** » Mon Jul 04, 2022 11:58 pm

Massive crowds tonight for the concert and fireworks. I was disappointed they had the swings closed off. Anyone know why? besides that everyone seemed to really enjoy the park and I heard nothing but praise all night. Once the other sections of the park open it will finally connect downtown and the river in a way the old parks never did. It will trulybe a world-class park. Also it was nice to meet Brad Williams.

Edit.

Brad wrote: Mon Jul 04, 2022 11:33 pm Great fireworks tonight!

Fantastic shots! Can't wait to see some of the other pictures you took this weekend!

Post by **Brad** » Tue Jul 05, 2022 12:06 am

MahaBman wrote: Mon Jul 04, 2022 11:58 pm I was disappointed they had the swings closed off. Anyone know why?

Really no big deal. One swing them had an issue and out of an abundance of caution they are all closed until Kiewit can inspect them this week.

Just like the large sculpture at the west end of the park. It has cones around it. Nothing wrong with it, the floor just needs to be looked at again this week.

MahaBman wrote: Mon Jul 04, 2022 11:58 pm Fantastic shots! Can't wait to see some of the other pictures you took this weekend!

Thanks. I was one of 3 photographers working for The Riverfront/MECA this weekend. They will end up sharing the photos over time, but I will try to make a post with some of my favorites this week.

iamjacobm · Post by **iamjacobm** » Tue Jul 05, 2022 5:08 pm

Would love to see a side-by-side of one of your old shots of the mall from this perspective Brad if you have one you like. Thanks for documenting Omaha so wonderfully as always.

stadsborgare · Post by **stadsborgare** » Tue Jul 05, 2022 8:26 pm

arjavrawal wrote: Mon Jul 04, 2022 1:21 pmI heard a variety of reactions, the most common of which was, "it's awesome, but will people use it?"

If you got a shot of the fountain before the park opened, that is the last time you will have seen it without a lot of kids playing on it!

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Wed Jul 06, 2022 9:23 am

Omaha Riverfront Timelapse from Burlington Building

Burlington Capital

Gene Leahy Mall progress

jjjjhskr · Post by **jjjjhskr** » Wed Jul 06, 2022 4:52 pm

Ok, the video wall if currently covered up so they can install a protective barrier over it, swings are shut down due to a problem with one swing, the cascades is not working and is being fixed and the water feature over the colorful sculpture is also being worked on. Opening week issues, hopefully all will be working soon.

Greg S · Post by **Greg S** » Thu Jul 07, 2022 9:48 am

jjjjhskr wrote: Wed Jul 06, 2022 4:52 pm Ok, the video wall if currently covered up so they can install a protective barrier over it, swings are shut down due to a problem with one swing, the cascades is not working and is being fixed and the water feature over the colorful sculpture is also being worked on. Opening week issues, hopefully all will be working soon.

Yeah it will be telling how fast these things can be resolved.

What's the issue on the video wall? Were people messing with it and it was anticipated or were there issues on it's own?

Greg

jjjjhskr · Post by **jjjjhskr** » Thu Jul 07, 2022 11:46 am

I haven’t heard yet what was wrong should hear from a friend at MECA today.

jjjjhskr · Post by **jjjjhskr** » Thu Jul 07, 2022 12:08 pm

The cascades is now working again. Good news!

Post by **Brad** » Thu Jul 07, 2022 9:32 pm

iamjacobm wrote: Tue Jul 05, 2022 5:08 pm Would love to see a side-by-side of one of your old shots of the mall from this perspective Brad if you have one you like. Thanks for documenting Omaha so wonderfully as always.

You're welcome. Here is a photo I shot from the same place, 14 years ago this week! July 2008!

20080717IMG_1061.jpg

Greg S · Post by **Greg S** » Fri Jul 08, 2022 9:28 am

Cermak wrote: Sat Jul 02, 2022 6:38 pm

I for one am going to miss the twin towers when they become obstructed by the MofO tower. I always liked the way they look when viewed from the mall. It's Omaha's signature view. Not that I'm against the mutual tower, and I understand progress and change happens.

Wasn't there plans just announced last year to but a tower between them anyway?

Greg

Post by **Omaha Cowboy** » Fri Jul 08, 2022 9:49 am

Greg S wrote: Fri Jul 08, 2022 9:28 am
Cermak wrote: Sat Jul 02, 2022 6:38 pm

I for one am going to miss the twin towers when they become obstructed by the MofO tower. I always liked the way they look when viewed from the mall. It's Omaha's signature view. Not that I'm against the mutual tower, and I understand progress and change happens.
Wasn't there plans just announced last year to but a tower between them anyway?

Greg

Yep- from the 11/29/21 W-H article-

“Downtown Omaha is about to get a new skyline.

For the past 40 years, a pair of iconic brick high-rises have towered west of Gene Leahy Mall, serving not only as twin office buildings but also as a postcard-pretty background for camera shots.

Now another business tower — stretching 17 stories and covered in glass — is to be wedged between the original two buildings that make up Central Park Plaza at 15th and Douglas Streets.”..

The Story link:

https://omaha.com/business/local/105-mi ... er_OWHnews

Also in the Central Park Plaza thread:

viewtopic.php?t=21132&start=80

Ciao..LiO…Peace

swgiust · Post by **swgiust** » Mon Jul 11, 2022 1:02 pm

Finally got to walk the park this weekend. Epic. Awesome. Fantastic. Game changer. Now comes the really hard work. Keep it clean. Keep it safe. Activate. Entertain.

There is a very solid future for downtown and the Old Market. I hope to enjoy for years to come.

PotatoeEatsFish · Post by **PotatoeEatsFish** » Mon Jul 11, 2022 5:32 pm

swgiust wrote: Mon Jul 11, 2022 1:02 pm Finally got to walk the park this weekend. Epic. Awesome. Fantastic. Game changer. Now comes the really hard work. Keep it clean. Keep it safe. Activate. Entertain.

There is a very solid future for downtown and the Old Market. I hope to enjoy for years to come.

I had a friend go at night who said there were guys urinating in the open. Not sure how good that 24/7 security will be after dark.

Cermak · Post by **Cermak** » Mon Jul 11, 2022 8:41 pm

I was there today around 2pm. Nice crowd for a Monday afternoon. The swings are still gone and no water around the art sculpture on the west end still. The park still looks clean, but I agree it could be a challenge to keep this place in top notch condition after a few years. The mall is definitely a draw for people that's for sure. Besides the GLM the rest of downtown was pretty quite with very light pedestrian activity. But I didn't get over to the Old Market (Howard st) so I'm not sure how busy it was.

Post by **Omaha Cowboy** » Thu Jul 14, 2022 12:36 pm

I spent time Downtown yesterday (Wednesday) late morning/mid afternoon..

For a Wednesday, downtown activity was brisk and really lively. It cannot be stated enough what the reopening of the new and improved GLM has done for the downtown core. I made my 2nd visit since the park reopened and there was a good amount of people, of all ages, hanging out and enjoying the space. I also spent time in North downtown at Millwork Commons and had a nice cup of coffee at Archetype Coffee right next to Kros Strain..

I’m so impressed with how active the entire downtown core was during an “off peak” weekday..and things will only get better 12-24 months from now..

It’s certainly an exciting time to live in a city/metro that’s coming into its own right before our eyes

…

Ciao..LiO…Peace

Post by **Brad** » Thu Jul 14, 2022 10:58 pm

Did the 14 year side by side comparison. Although, I probably should have been a few feet to my left. Close enough...

7/14/2008 and 7/14/2022

Garrett · Post by **Garrett** » Thu Jul 14, 2022 11:01 pm

From the scenic standpoint I’m gonna miss the stream, but from the usage standpoint I’m thrilled with the new park.

Cermak · Post by **Cermak** » Thu Jul 14, 2022 11:06 pm

The new one is much more usable. And it still has some water features near and east of 10th street, which kind of reminds me of the old mall a little. The new GLM is a big upgrade.

nebport5 · Post by **nebport5** » Fri Jul 15, 2022 9:40 am

Garrett wrote: Thu Jul 14, 2022 11:01 pm From the scenic standpoint I’m gonna miss the stream, but from the usage standpoint I’m thrilled with the new park.

Agreed but I also miss the trees.

Louie · Post by **Louie** » Fri Jul 15, 2022 10:06 am

nebport5 wrote: Fri Jul 15, 2022 9:40 am
Garrett wrote: Thu Jul 14, 2022 11:01 pm From the scenic standpoint I’m gonna miss the stream, but from the usage standpoint I’m thrilled with the new park.
Agreed but I also miss the trees.

In time, this will probably look more filled in as I think (based on visuals) the number of trees is higher with this version.

skinzfan23 · Post by **skinzfan23** » Fri Jul 15, 2022 10:18 am

Garrett wrote: Thu Jul 14, 2022 11:01 pm From the scenic standpoint I’m gonna miss the stream, but from the usage standpoint I’m thrilled with the new park.

Agree 100%, there are some people that are so fixated on the old layout, yet they never visited the area on a somewhat regular basis. I used to work in the Landmark building and can attest that people did use the park for walking during the day, but there really wasn't much to it other than the trails and a few benches.

The new design still has all the walking paths (and more) plus swings, more seating, light features, playground, casual seating areas, more shade....not to mention is more than 25% useable space.

I understand being sentimental about things, like people are with Rosenblatt as well, but there is always some good that comes from change too. In this case, a much more usable park that people of every age can enjoy.

Post by **Brad** » Sat Jul 16, 2022 9:38 am

All but one set of swings is back this morning.

ita · Post by **ita** » Sat Jul 16, 2022 10:49 pm

We went out again today since the weather was cooler and cloudy. A lot of people must of had the same idea. It was quite busy, maybe 3/4 as much as opening weekend. There were a few food carts and trucks getting business. I saw a lady selling copies of some book at a table. There were ministers/members of a Spanish speaking church looking for people to talk to. People were there from the pride parade. People were taking selfies by the art piece on the west end. Quincinera and wedding parties were getting photography done. Families, singles, couples, old, young, locals, visitors. It had a real town square vibe. They did a good job creating a public space for people to gather.

stadsborgare · Post by **stadsborgare** » Mon Jul 18, 2022 9:56 am

I think perhaps the single biggest element that is driving the success of this park is the incredible amount of places to sit.

A concept so simple yet ingenious. For every kid who wants to play in the water or climb ropes, an adult must be nearby, and they'd like to sit somewhere. Every person who buys food from vendors would like to sit. Families, friends, couples, who want to shoot the breeze need somewhere to sit. And there is no shortage of options - from movable chairs to benches to swings to concrete blocks, they are everywhere.

I frankly enjoy just people-watching sometimes, and apparently many others do, too. Invariably I'll meet someone I know, by chance, but regardless, it is amazing to see the amount of cultural diversity my wonderful city has, and it makes me feel happy to see so many (possibly new to the city) people discover what a fine place Omaha is to live in, the city where I was born and raised.

Proud to be a native Omahan, and share it with the world!

Post by **Omaha Cowboy** » Mon Jul 18, 2022 1:50 pm

stadsborgare wrote: Mon Jul 18, 2022 9:56 am I think perhaps the single biggest element that is driving the success of this park is the incredible amount of places to sit.

A concept so simple yet ingenious. For every kid who wants to play in the water or climb ropes, an adult must be nearby, and they'd like to sit somewhere. Every person who buys food from vendors would like to sit. Families, friends, couples, who want to shoot the breeze need somewhere to sit. And there is no shortage of options - from movable chairs to benches to swings to concrete blocks, they are everywhere.

Proud to be a native Omahan, and share it with the world!

I could not agree more! One of the reasons I’ve stated the new GLM is so inviting and approachable, is how welcoming it is. You seriously can’t walk 25 feet without encountering a comfortable place to sit and relax, talk, eat lunch, people watch etc.. You could even lay in a hammock if you wanted, lol. When the weather gets cooler, there are multiple areas (I’ve counted 3) to sit around a heat controlled fire pit..

No stone was left unturned. There is something for everyone, of all ages, to enjoy. The GLM reboot is truly one of the best designed and inviting urban parks in the US..

And I also agree, as Omaha natives, we should be very proud of this addition and our city/metro; and also share the existence of this large, inviting Urban green space and park with everyone who lives outside of the Omaha area..I already have with several business associates who live in other cities. When they come to town for a visit, they’ll be making it a point to check the new GLM out…

Ciao..LiO…Peace

MORiverOMA · Post by **MORiverOMA** » Tue Jul 19, 2022 1:14 am

Howdy everyone!

This is my third “tour” living in Omaha. I lived here (well, Bellevue) from 1981-1985, then again from 1989-1990, and now have been a downtown resident since 2018. I walked Gene Leahy right before it closed, and to be honest didn’t follow the progress all that closely. On top of that, I was out of town when the park reopened.

I was just old enough to remember going down the slides and eating at Old Spaghetti Works when those were the only “things” downtown.

My girlfriend, who is from Orlando, and I finally got down to the park on Sunday afternoon. The magnificence of the new Mall and its surroundings took our breath away. This is an absolute masterpiece of a public space. I won’t drone on about all the wonderful features many have already discussed, but for me its the flora. Native birches and maples, lots of awesome ground shrubs and flowers…breathtaking. Nobody has mentioned this…but the park will be AMAZING in fall when those “silvers” and birches turn red and gold. Needless to say I got some funny looks when, as a 44-year old man, I queued up behind the throng of little kids to go down the slides, but it was absolutely worth it.

I’ll leave with three words: they nailed it. I love my city and its new park.

I am proud to call Omaha home.

Post by **Omaha Cowboy** » Wed Jul 20, 2022 8:58 am

MORiverOMA wrote: Tue Jul 19, 2022 1:14 am Howdy everyone!

This is my third “tour” living in Omaha. I lived here (well, Bellevue) from 1981-1985, then again from 1989-1990, and now have been a downtown resident since 2018. I walked Gene Leahy right before it closed, and to be honest didn’t follow the progress all that closely. On top of that, I was out of town when the park reopened.

I was just old enough to remember going down the slides and eating at Old Spaghetti Works when those were the only “things” downtown.

My girlfriend, who is from Orlando, and I finally got down to the park on Sunday afternoon. The magnificence of the new Mall and its surroundings took our breath away. This is an absolute masterpiece of a public space. I won’t drone on about all the wonderful features many have already discussed, but for me its the flora. Native birches and maples, lots of awesome ground shrubs and flowers…breathtaking. Nobody has mentioned this…but the park will be AMAZING in fall when those “silvers” and birches turn red and gold. Needless to say I got some funny looks when, as a 44-year old man, I queued up behind the throng of little kids to go down the slides, but it was absolutely worth it.

I’ll leave with three words: they nailed it. I love my city and its new park.

I am proud to call Omaha home.

Thanks for your feedback and impressions of the new GLM..and I agree- they nailed it!..

I also appreciate your girlfriend’s impressions of the new park as she is from Orlando FL- an area with no shortage of amazing public space

…

Ciao..LiO…Peace

nativeomahan · Post by **nativeomahan** » Sat Jul 23, 2022 5:54 pm

jjjjhskr wrote: Thu Jul 07, 2022 11:46 am I haven’t heard yet what was wrong should hear from a friend at MECA today.

When we visited on the opening weekend kids (junior high school age) were body slamming the screen. That really should have been anticipated.

nativeomahan · Post by **nativeomahan** » Sat Jul 23, 2022 5:57 pm

swgiust wrote: Mon Jul 11, 2022 1:02 pm Finally got to walk the park this weekend. Epic. Awesome. Fantastic. Game changer. Now comes the really hard work. Keep it clean. Keep it safe. Activate. Entertain.

There is a very solid future for downtown and the Old Market. I hope to enjoy for years to come.

Exactly!

nativeomahan · Post by **nativeomahan** » Sat Jul 23, 2022 5:59 pm

Brad wrote: Thu Jul 14, 2022 10:58 pm Did the 14 year side by side comparison. Although, I probably should have been a few feet to my left. Close enough...

7/14/2008 and 7/14/2022

Brad, someone needs to say it:
You are an Omaha Treasure.

Post by **Brad** » Sat Jul 23, 2022 9:53 pm

nativeomahan wrote: Sat Jul 23, 2022 5:59 pm Brad, someone needs to say it:
You are an Omaha Treasure.

Wow, that's quite the complement! Thank You!

Post by **Omaha Cowboy** » Sun Jul 24, 2022 6:12 pm

Visited the park once again this afternoon. Easily, several thousand folks enjoying the GLM.. All the swings are back in working order and tons of adults and kids enjoying the splash park water features.. People playing catch and cheerleaders doing stunts in the green spaces..Dog park was alive with people walking their dogs of all different sizes and breeds..

Excellent vibrancy. Extremely enjoyable way to spend 90 minutes of time on a Sunday (or any) day…

Ciao..LiO…Peace

Post by **Brad** » Sun Jul 24, 2022 8:15 pm

I saw the Gene Leahy Mall Yacht Club was driving their boats down there this weekend.

jjjjhskr · Post by **jjjjhskr** » Mon Jul 25, 2022 7:39 am

Brad wrote: Sun Jul 24, 2022 8:15 pm I saw the Gene Leahy Mall Yacht Club was driving their boats down there this weekend.

I’m one of the founders, it’s really gaining momentum. Would have been nice to see you Brad, it’s been awhile.

the1wags · Post by **the1wags** » Mon Jul 25, 2022 10:50 pm

The GLM remodel is a home run. Amazing

Post by **Omaha Cowboy** » Mon Jul 25, 2022 11:30 pm

the1wags wrote: Mon Jul 25, 2022 10:50 pm The GLM remodel is a home run. Amazing

Excellent pic!

…

Ciao..LiO…Peace