Gretna Goodlife District

[djc311]

Bite the bullet and build an airport & make Eppley into condos

Funny you mentioned that because my mom actually just said they should build an airport between Lincoln and Omaha and get rid of Eppley due to the extremely limited space left in Carter Lake (or Omaha... whatever part that's considered). She followed that up with her own response that basically said they'd never do it due to financial reasons and agreements they have in place.

Obviously the 1000 acres vs. 2500 acres is a small issue as well

[Renovator2559]

Bite the bullet and build an airport & make Eppley into condos

No, we don't need to waste on a new airport and build one that looks like a modern box with cheap materials and columns that look like toothpicks, because of the cost of materials. It does not make sense to go the KC route.

Eppley Airport even at it's current state, looks much better than other airports like LAX and ATL, which look like generic office buildings (though ATL is remodeling)
Eppley Airport may look dated but there's no doubt that the airport was built with materials that look solid and not cheap and looks better to airports build during the same time frame. The thin slated ceiling tiles and the brown, beige warm tones makes OMA a stand out to the generic white.

Eppley's current renovation, will allow the funds to go farther, then starting a terminal from scratch.

I wouldn't mind if Eppley took a page from IAD Dulles, that airport does a great job at welcoming the traveler with a low ceiling, like Eppley. Though Dulles goes further, as you progress through the terminal, the ceiling morphs into tall cavernous like ceilings of various textures. You can't really tell what surprises and the shape of Dulles really is. LGA is another nice airport like IAD

Compared to say DCA and ORD, you can tell how those airports look from the outside by being inside

If the new Eppley Terminal modernization is able to couple the similar concepts as IAD or LGA, that will make OMA a stand out.

[Garrett]

Are we seriously now bragging about the architectural prowess of Eppley?

[Renovator2559]

Are we seriously now bragging about the architectural prowess of Eppley?

I thought I was clear that OMA has examples to look up to, such as IAD and LGA, that does not denote OMA is the best, I think you need to re-read and not jump to conclusions. However for a dated airport and comparing to other airports not yet remodeled, Eppley is a nice airport.

[NEDodger]

Zero reason to spend billions and billions on a new airport so that 350,000 people can cut 30 minutes off their commute whenever they may go on an airplane, while 350,000 more would have to add to their commute. It’s more advantageous to have the airport close to your business center/tourist attractions.

[F0R_L1F3]

Well, based on the track record of large local developments such as Heartwood, Crossroads, whatever-it's-called at 192nd & Dodge my expectations are low for an island development in a sea of agriculture. If there isn't critical mass within Omaha itself to do better than 5+1s and gilded strip malls, I don't see anything at Exit 432 that would change that trend. Short of a national destination like a NASCAR track (unlikely since that would require an extension of an already long season, plus another large stadium-ish facility used minimally throughout the year) or something similar, my high bar for this development is something like maybe an Ikea or MicroCenter. My anticipation remains low.

I would kill for a Microcenter. I have been begging that it would come to the state someday. Stores like them and Ikea as well would be awesome to have if Nebraska Crossing rapidly expands.

[Linkin5]

Has anybody ever been to Legends in KC and thought “yeah we need another one of these”? Every time I have been there my impressions are it is a giant cluster f^ck that is already showing it’s age.

I would say if they incorporated a version of the Garmin or Scheels Soccer Complex in KC it would bring in a significant level of visitors.

[Louie]

Has anybody ever been to Legends in KC and thought “yeah we need another one of these”? Every time I have been there my impressions are it is a giant cluster f^ck that is already showing it’s age.

I would say if they incorporated a version of the Garmin or Scheels Soccer Complex in KC it would bring in a significant level of visitors.

Yeah there really isn't anything impressive there. It's just a extremely suburban shopping mall next to a soccer stadium and a racetrack. There isn't anything unique about it.

[Dusty]

Has anybody ever been to Legends in KC and thought “yeah we need another one of these”? Every time I have been there my impressions are it is a giant cluster f^ck that is already showing it’s age.

I would say if they incorporated a version of the Garmin or Scheels Soccer Complex in KC it would bring in a significant level of visitors.

Yeah there really isn't anything impressive there. It's just a extremely suburban shopping mall next to a soccer stadium and a racetrack. There isn't anything unique about it.

This is so much different. It's a Village District. Take Legends and add a Best Buy, Petsmart, and TJMaxx. Can't you feel the excitement of all of this? LOL! It's making Heartwood Preserve look good!

[GenX]

Will the residents be called the Village People?

[Greg S]

Has anybody ever been to Legends in KC and thought “yeah we need another one of these”? Every time I have been there my impressions are it is a giant cluster f^ck that is already showing it’s age.

I would say if they incorporated a version of the Garmin or Scheels Soccer Complex in KC it would bring in a significant level of visitors.

Yeah there really isn't anything impressive there. It's just a extremely suburban shopping mall next to a soccer stadium and a racetrack. There isn't anything unique about it.

Yeah it is all so disjointed. You have the 3 sports facilities (soccer, racetrack, baseball stadium), the mall, surrounding retail (NFM, Cabela's, and stuff like SuperTarget), hotels and Cerner. It's not really walkable. FYI-the two high rise Cerner buildings look to converted to residential in the coming years. To me I could the same feeling on a smaller scale in La Vista. With Cabela's and such it's just a jumbled mess and the new Smash Park is coming. You again aren't really in a well designed walkable development.

[Dusty]

Let's not forget a major pull for Legends was Schlitterbahns Water Park across the interstate. Once this closed and T-rex Cafe, the place became a ghost town.

I much prefer districts like Country Club Plaza or Zona Rosa. More character to architecture and streetscape. It's makes you want to walk around and check out the shops.

[ricko]

Will the residents be called the Village People?

Only if they build a YMCA.

[GenX]

Will the residents be called the Village People?

Only if they build a YMCA.

I doubt they'll have room with only 1000 acres.

[Louie]

Will the residents be called the Village People?

Only if they build a YMCA.

I doubt they'll have room with only 1000 acres.

Ah yes, as they say to build a YMCA, You Must Collect Acres

[Dusty]

I think success will really hinge on the major attractions or anchors they land. Pick something mediocre and people will say "meh, not worth my time." it's important to bring something new to the metro we don't already have.

I don't know if a racetrack is a strong enough pull, but a Great Wolf Lodge or Kalahari Resorts would be great addition to the metro.

[skinzfan23]

This would be a great place for a Great Wolf Lodge. I have long said that somewhere near the zoo would be ideal, but I don't think there is any great land space near there available. There is definitely enough population to support it and add in the fact it would be right on I-80 would make it even better.

[djc311]

This would be a great place for a Great Wolf Lodge. I have long said that somewhere near the zoo would be ideal, but I don't think there is any great land space near there available. There is definitely enough population to support it and add in the fact it would be right on I-80 would make it even better.

I concur with the NEX area being the best fit for Great Wolf. And I do think in order for it to be done correctly and successfully it NEEDS to be a chain with a name and history behind it. The dump that got torn down on 72nd & Grover was a joke - I thought it had a chance... went there once before they had all of the known issues of imbalanced water chemistry and other problems.

[skinzfan23]

I went to Coco Key several times, never had an issue, but I do agree it always looked pretty shady and they only had 2-3 lifeguards for the whole place.

[Doctor Fate]

Johanna Boston told me awhile back that one of their retail goals was to attract a Nordstrom Rack or even a Nordstrom (a lower end one, ie. no designer brands), as well as Crate & Barrel, West Elm, or CB2. CB2 seems unlikely, but the others would all would be a boost.

[djc311]

Johanna Boston told me awhile back that one of their retail goals was to attract a Nordstrom Rack or even a Nordstrom (a lower end one, ie. no designer brands), as well as Crate & Barrel, West Elm, or CB2. CB2 seems unlikely, but the others would all would be a boost.

I don't doubt that - one thing my wife told me when she heard about this potential development was related to when we went to NEX when it was first re-opened. Rod Yates was actually there for the media coverage and to greet customers, etc... they were handing out gift cards to some of the stores and so forth. Anyway, my wife asked him about Nordstroms coming to the development 10 years ago and he said he hoped to have them sometime. I imagine it is still on their most wanted list of retailers!

If they could drop a Nordstroms, IKEA and several other new to the area players then I'd definitely say it would be a win.

[Garrett]

I’m just itching for official renderings and plans to come out. I keep switching between expecting to be disappointed and hopeful for something interesting.

[iamjacobm]

Wonder if NFM would move out to something like this.

[Garrett]

Wonder if NFM would move out to something like this.

That's what I've been wondering. Every time I go to look at Legends on google maps to see the vibes they're aiming for it's hard not to notice the massive NFM there. Freeing up their campus would give so much space for new development on 72nd/Dodge. Get all of those parcels together and you could build a completely new neighborhood around the new library.

[djc311]

Wonder if NFM would move out to something like this.

That's what I've been wondering. Every time I go to look at Legends on google maps to see the vibes they're aiming for it's hard not to notice the massive NFM there. Freeing up their campus would give so much space for new development on 72nd/Dodge. Get all of those parcels together and you could build a completely new neighborhood around the new library.

As someone that worked there for over 10 years it was always said by ownership they’d NEVER close 72nd and move. They also said they would never open a second Omaha store.

With all of that being said they now actually have a CEO that’s not family for the first time (not a Blumkin). I’d be completely shocked if they abandoned the location they have now especially after all the money they’ve wasted trying to make it better. I’ve always said it’s kind of a shitty way to operate a business when you build much larger and better stores in other states than where you basically became successful. I’m not personally impressed with how they do things but to each their own.

[Garrett]

Wonder if NFM would move out to something like this.

That's what I've been wondering. Every time I go to look at Legends on google maps to see the vibes they're aiming for it's hard not to notice the massive NFM there. Freeing up their campus would give so much space for new development on 72nd/Dodge. Get all of those parcels together and you could build a completely new neighborhood around the new library.

As someone that worked there for over 10 years it was always said by ownership they’d NEVER close 72nd and move. They also said they would never open a second Omaha store.

With all of that being said they now actually have a CEO that’s not family for the first time (not a Blumkin). I’d be completely shocked if they abandoned the location they have now especially after all the money they’ve wasted trying to make it better. I’ve always said it’s kind of a shitty way to operate a business when you build much larger and better stores in other states than where you basically became successful. I’m not personally impressed with how they do things but to each their own.

It's definitely a stretch for sure but I don't think many of us could imagine Mutual abandoning their campus until suddenly they did.

[djc311]

Wonder if NFM would move out to something like this.

That's what I've been wondering. Every time I go to look at Legends on google maps to see the vibes they're aiming for it's hard not to notice the massive NFM there. Freeing up their campus would give so much space for new development on 72nd/Dodge. Get all of those parcels together and you could build a completely new neighborhood around the new library.

As someone that worked there for over 10 years it was always said by ownership they’d NEVER close 72nd and move. They also said they would never open a second Omaha store.

With all of that being said they now actually have a CEO that’s not family for the first time (not a Blumkin). I’d be completely shocked if they abandoned the location they have now especially after all the money they’ve wasted trying to make it better. I’ve always said it’s kind of a shitty way to operate a business when you build much larger and better stores in other states than where you basically became successful. I’m not personally impressed with how they do things but to each their own.

It's definitely a stretch for sure but I don't think many of us could imagine Mutual abandoning their campus until suddenly they did.

That is true! I'm assuming they already had some of that planned pre-pandemic. However, I also think Mutual could have backed out if they so chose to do so (especially considering how much of a rush was put on closing up the library, moving that to a temp location and so forth). I hate to get too far off topic but I know a few different ppl employed by Mutual that live in Omaha who started working from home during COVID. They've all told me they don't need to (or cannot) go back to the office full time even with the new building. I think the biggest shock to me is Mutual is investing in the tallest building in our state yet they're going to have fewer onsite staff than their other campus before covid. To me that doesn't make logistical or economic sense... but hey, I just work, I mean, post here.

[TreeKiid]

Wonder if NFM would move out to something like this.

That's what I've been wondering. Every time I go to look at Legends on google maps to see the vibes they're aiming for it's hard not to notice the massive NFM there. Freeing up their campus would give so much space for new development on 72nd/Dodge. Get all of those parcels together and you could build a completely new neighborhood around the new library.

As someone that worked there for over 10 years it was always said by ownership they’d NEVER close 72nd and move. They also said they would never open a second Omaha store.

With all of that being said they now actually have a CEO that’s not family for the first time (not a Blumkin). I’d be completely shocked if they abandoned the location they have now especially after all the money they’ve wasted trying to make it better. I’ve always said it’s kind of a shitty way to operate a business when you build much larger and better stores in other states than where you basically became successful. I’m not personally impressed with how they do things but to each their own.

It's definitely a stretch for sure but I don't think many of us could imagine Mutual abandoning their campus until suddenly they did.

That is true! I'm assuming they already had some of that planned pre-pandemic. However, I also think Mutual could have backed out if they so chose to do so (especially considering how much of a rush was put on closing up the library, moving that to a temp location and so forth). I hate to get too far off topic but I know a few different ppl employed by Mutual that live in Omaha who started working from home during COVID. They've all told me they don't need to (or cannot) go back to the office full time even with the new building. I think the biggest shock to me is Mutual is investing in the tallest building in our state yet they're going to have fewer onsite staff than their other campus before covid. To me that doesn't make logistical or economic sense... but hey, I just work, I mean, post here.

Don’t forget how sweet of a deal they got to move and make that investment though. They were ensured that their original campus land would be worth way more than it was when they occupied it because there would be a streetcar right along there. Getting off topic but does anyone remember how much they paid for the library land?

[Athomsfere]

Wonder if NFM would move out to something like this.

That's what I've been wondering. Every time I go to look at Legends on google maps to see the vibes they're aiming for it's hard not to notice the massive NFM there. Freeing up their campus would give so much space for new development on 72nd/Dodge. Get all of those parcels together and you could build a completely new neighborhood around the new library.

As someone that worked there for over 10 years it was always said by ownership they’d NEVER close 72nd and move. They also said they would never open a second Omaha store.

With all of that being said they now actually have a CEO that’s not family for the first time (not a Blumkin). I’d be completely shocked if they abandoned the location they have now especially after all the money they’ve wasted trying to make it better. I’ve always said it’s kind of a shitty way to operate a business when you build much larger and better stores in other states than where you basically became successful. I’m not personally impressed with how they do things but to each their own.

It's definitely a stretch for sure but I don't think many of us could imagine Mutual abandoning their campus until suddenly they did.

That was one of rumors a few years back. A major tenant was shopping and someone said MoO. None of us believed it, except the current campus was ancient.

[nebport5]

I don't think the Mutual/NFM analogy is congruent. My money was always on Mutual in regard to the D.T. tower rumors. It wasn't unfathomable pre announcement given the age problem of Mutual's current facilities and publicly supporting the streetcar prior to fruition. NFM, on the other hand, has publicly stated they're not moving. They are synonymous with 72nd & Dodge. Regardless of who is the CEO, I can't imagine moving everything to NEX being a smart business decision. Furthermore, NEX is recently on record for going after IKEA. And who really thinks each of these furniture stores would want the other in the same development?

[ita]

Gretna voters to have major say in expansion of Nebraska Crossing mall

Paul Hammel
Voters in Gretna will have a major say in whether a $3.2 billion proposal moves forward to expand the Nebraska Crossing mall into a major destination for shoppers, tourists and sports training.

That’s according to a bill introduced last week in the Nebraska Legislature. It would require local voter approval to allow sales taxes generated by the mall to be used for bond financing of the expansion.

And it would be a major expansion, according to a graphic of the proposed “Good Life” district obtained by the Examiner that is being shown to local and state officials.

The map shows first-to-Nebraska retailers such as Gucci and IKEA locating next to the existing, 11-year-old mall, as well as a Topgolf entertainment center and youth sports training centers for soccer, golf and volleyball.

Those who have seen the map of the Good Life district say it includes some businesses and shops that have tentatively agreed to locate at the expanded mall, as well as some still being courted.

Officials with Nebraska Crossing declined to grant permission to the Examiner to publish the graphic, but they did outline “11 things” they are planning, including a wellness center operated by motivational speaker Tony Robbins, a resort in the center of the development and a $1 billion, 500-acre youth sports academy and tournament venue.

The expansion has been touted as creating a whole new “community,” with 3,000 apartment units and a cluster of big-box retailers, as well as 1,000 hotel beds for shoppers and families coming for youth sports tournaments.

[djc311]

Gretna voters to have major say in expansion of Nebraska Crossing mall

Paul Hammel
Voters in Gretna will have a major say in whether a $3.2 billion proposal moves forward to expand the Nebraska Crossing mall into a major destination for shoppers, tourists and sports training.

That’s according to a bill introduced last week in the Nebraska Legislature. It would require local voter approval to allow sales taxes generated by the mall to be used for bond financing of the expansion.

And it would be a major expansion, according to a graphic of the proposed “Good Life” district obtained by the Examiner that is being shown to local and state officials.

The map shows first-to-Nebraska retailers such as Gucci and IKEA locating next to the existing, 11-year-old mall, as well as a Topgolf entertainment center and youth sports training centers for soccer, golf and volleyball.

Those who have seen the map of the Good Life district say it includes some businesses and shops that have tentatively agreed to locate at the expanded mall, as well as some still being courted.

Officials with Nebraska Crossing declined to grant permission to the Examiner to publish the graphic, but they did outline “11 things” they are planning, including a wellness center operated by motivational speaker Tony Robbins, a resort in the center of the development and a $1 billion, 500-acre youth sports academy and tournament venue.

The expansion has been touted as creating a whole new “community,” with 3,000 apartment units and a cluster of big-box retailers, as well as 1,000 hotel beds for shoppers and families coming for youth sports tournaments.

They mention Gucci and IKEA - I'd bet $$$ that neither of these have made any type of agreement to locate there at this point in time.

I really WANT to see something like this happen - at the same time, Rod Yates' history on projects where he asks for govt. or tax assistance has not been that great (Crossroads = huge fail). I can't recall if NEX in its current state had any type of govt. help to get to where it's at.

Not sure what the reasoning is behind not allowing the story to run a hypothetical graphic of a proposed layout, even if it's extremely premature. All that would show is their desired intent which has no more value than simply calling out the names in the article (ie, IKEA). The fact they even mentioned IKEA is surprising because as others have mentioned on other topics IKEA won't even consider development in markets below 1 - 1.5 million ppl.

It will be interesting to see how this plays out.

I can't see it costing $3 billion dollars unless they're hoping for our tax revenue to actually front the physical construction of the IKEA store (along with a year's worth of inventory). Unless I've totally loss the value of a buck, $3.2 billion for retail and sports development seems crazy expensive. You could open a Disneyland or Universal for less.

[Dusty]

They mention Gucci and IKEA - I'd bet $$$ that neither of these have made any type of agreement to locate there at this point in time.

I really WANT to see something like this happen - at the same time, Rod Yates' history on projects where he asks for govt. or tax assistance has not been that great (Crossroads = huge fail). I can't recall if NEX in its current state had any type of govt. help to get to where it's at.

Not sure what the reasoning is behind not allowing the story to run a hypothetical graphic of a proposed layout, even if it's extremely premature. All that would show is their desired intent which has no more value than simply calling out the names in the article (ie, IKEA). The fact they even mentioned IKEA is surprising because as others have mentioned on other topics IKEA won't even consider development in markets below 1 - 1.5 million ppl.

It will be interesting to see how this plays out.

I can't see it costing $3 billion dollars unless they're hoping for our tax revenue to actually front the physical construction of the IKEA store (along with a year's worth of inventory). Unless I've totally loss the value of a buck, $3.2 billion for retail and sports development seems crazy expensive. You could open a Disneyland or Universal for less.

I agree. It's a bit of a brown bag special. Please approve our mystery development. It may contain retail, apartments, and entertainment options. We can't tell you any details because that would ruin the surprise.

Side note: I would rather get iFly- Indoor Skydiving Ceter verses another Topgolf. Bring something new and original to the area.

[TitosBuritoBarn]

On top of voting to approve a mystery development, I doubt the people of Gretna are going to vote to bring a substantial amount of development to their town. I'd have to imagine most have moved to Gretna to escape that.

[almighty_tuna]

It has a real stink of - it worked in KC so let's get some state $$ and do the same thing in Gretna. Honestly, I wouldn't be shocked if they tried to get the new Omaha Union stadium here to complete the Kansas City copy/paste.

[nebport5]

Gretna voters to have major say in expansion of Nebraska Crossing mall

Paul Hammel
Voters in Gretna will have a major say in whether a $3.2 billion proposal moves forward to expand the Nebraska Crossing mall into a major destination for shoppers, tourists and sports training.

That’s according to a bill introduced last week in the Nebraska Legislature. It would require local voter approval to allow sales taxes generated by the mall to be used for bond financing of the expansion.

And it would be a major expansion, according to a graphic of the proposed “Good Life” district obtained by the Examiner that is being shown to local and state officials.

The map shows first-to-Nebraska retailers such as Gucci and IKEA locating next to the existing, 11-year-old mall, as well as a Topgolf entertainment center and youth sports training centers for soccer, golf and volleyball.

Those who have seen the map of the Good Life district say it includes some businesses and shops that have tentatively agreed to locate at the expanded mall, as well as some still being courted.

Officials with Nebraska Crossing declined to grant permission to the Examiner to publish the graphic, but they did outline “11 things” they are planning, including a wellness center operated by motivational speaker Tony Robbins, a resort in the center of the development and a $1 billion, 500-acre youth sports academy and tournament venue.

The expansion has been touted as creating a whole new “community,” with 3,000 apartment units and a cluster of big-box retailers, as well as 1,000 hotel beds for shoppers and families coming for youth sports tournaments.

They mention Gucci and IKEA - I'd bet $$$ that neither of these have made any type of agreement to locate there at this point in time.

I really WANT to see something like this happen - at the same time, Rod Yates' history on projects where he asks for govt. or tax assistance has not been that great (Crossroads = huge fail). I can't recall if NEX in its current state had any type of govt. help to get to where it's at.

Not sure what the reasoning is behind not allowing the story to run a hypothetical graphic of a proposed layout, even if it's extremely premature. All that would show is their desired intent which has no more value than simply calling out the names in the article (ie, IKEA). The fact they even mentioned IKEA is surprising because as others have mentioned on other topics IKEA won't even consider development in markets below 1 - 1.5 million ppl.

It will be interesting to see how this plays out.

I can't see it costing $3 billion dollars unless they're hoping for our tax revenue to actually front the physical construction of the IKEA store (along with a year's worth of inventory). Unless I've totally loss the value of a buck, $3.2 billion for retail and sports development seems crazy expensive. You could open a Disneyland or Universal for less.

Yeah, maybe not quite a Disney Park. The forthcoming Star Wars park is to cost 10 billion. Maybe Yates should call Steve Minard.

[nebport5]

Is Gretna really in need of more youth sports facilities with the existing Gretna Crossings Park and the Gretna Sports Complex?

[CBJason]

Not sure what the reasoning is behind not allowing the story to run a hypothetical graphic of a proposed layout, even if it's extremely premature. All that would show is their desired intent which has no more value than simply calling out the names in the article (ie, IKEA). The fact they even mentioned IKEA is surprising because as others have mentioned on other topics IKEA won't even consider development in markets below 1 - 1.5 million ppl.

Memphis has had an IKEA for a couple years now and the metro is 1.3M people.

[djc311]

I like the idea - actually, LOVE the idea. Would LOVE to see IKEA, the "luxury" brands that the linked article call out, etc. But like everyone is saying it's like half-assed.

The biggest surprise of all of this, IMO, is that Yates obviously has skillz.... negotiating, retail, development, etc. But on the other hand it's like things are so wishy-washy.

I mean in my mind I still think LEGO was strongly considering a store at NEX yet pulled all their marketing material and announced a store for Des Moines. Is that because NEX blew their opportunity? I can't see any reason at all why Des Moines is a more attractive market than Omaha. We should have a leg up on Iowa, TBH, as far as population, income, tourism, etc.

[Garrett]

“We have great people in Nebraska but not great things,” said Gretna Mayor Mike Evans. “Maybe we can merge the two here.”

Oh |expletive| off Mike