Omaha Streetcar Discussion

[almighty_tuna]

I can't believe the streetcar construction. I tried to take the Boys Town exit off Dodge last night around 9pm and it was CLOSED! Thanks to the streetcar, Boys Town will probably close now, too, and all of those kids will be homeless.

-Omaha Reddit, probably

[Elkhorn_Urbanist]

I can't believe the streetcar construction. I tried to take the Boys Town exit off Dodge last night around 9pm and it was CLOSED! Thanks to the streetcar, Boys Town will probably close now, too, and all of those kids will be homeless.

-Omaha Reddit, probably

I've decided that I can't look at a single streetcar related post on the Omaha subreddit because it is overwhelmingly filled with critical, often downright false comments. The expectation that a large transit project will materialize overnight and that there should be no disruption at all (especially to vehicular traffic) has no basis in reality. The vitriol aimed at the streetcar specifically, and at any and all development in the core more broadly is insane.

[GenX]

I can't believe the streetcar construction. I tried to take the Boys Town exit off Dodge last night around 9pm and it was CLOSED! Thanks to the streetcar, Boys Town will probably close now, too, and all of those kids will be homeless.

-Omaha Reddit, probably

That whole W Dodge resurfacing project has been a marvel to watch. They start with the grinder, followed by the sweeper, followed by tar and then asphalt, all in a train. They even grooved the asphalt like the concrete used to be, never seen that on asphalt. Really cool, especially in comparison to the resurfacing of Center b/w 51st & 59th where each part seemed to take an entire day and closed many intersections.

[almighty_tuna]

That whole W Dodge resurfacing project has been a marvel to watch. They start with the grinder, followed by the sweeper, followed by tar and then asphalt, all in a train. They even grooved the asphalt like the concrete used to be, never seen that on asphalt. Really cool, especially in comparison to the resurfacing of Center b/w 51st & 59th where each part seemed to take an entire day and closed many intersections.

Yeah, overall it's been pretty slick with minimal disruption.

[Garrett]

I can't believe the streetcar construction. I tried to take the Boys Town exit off Dodge last night around 9pm and it was CLOSED! Thanks to the streetcar, Boys Town will probably close now, too, and all of those kids will be homeless.

-Omaha Reddit, probably

I've decided that I can't look at a single streetcar related post on the Omaha subreddit because it is overwhelmingly filled with critical, often downright false comments. The expectation that a large transit project will materialize overnight and that there should be no disruption at all (especially to vehicular traffic) has no basis in reality. The vitriol aimed at the streetcar specifically, and at any and all development in the core more broadly is insane.

People can’t get over the idea that TIF is just the city handing a bag of cash to developers and saying “Have fun!”

But overall Reddit is just super hot and cold with it. One day a thread will be full of support, the next they’re saying it’s the worst idea ever.

[halgy]

I can't believe the streetcar construction. I tried to take the Boys Town exit off Dodge last night around 9pm and it was CLOSED! Thanks to the streetcar, Boys Town will probably close now, too, and all of those kids will be homeless.

-Omaha Reddit, probably

I've decided that I can't look at a single streetcar related post on the Omaha subreddit because it is overwhelmingly filled with critical, often downright false comments. The expectation that a large transit project will materialize overnight and that there should be no disruption at all (especially to vehicular traffic) has no basis in reality. The vitriol aimed at the streetcar specifically, and at any and all development in the core more broadly is insane.

Reddit also ignores that half of small businesses close within 5 years even in normal times. I'm not saying that construction can't be disruptive, but downtown has always had plenty of turnover.

Anti-streetcar complaints definitely have a lot of "thanks Obama" energy, and maybe should just be treated as such.

[nebport5]

I can't believe the streetcar construction. I tried to take the Boys Town exit off Dodge last night around 9pm and it was CLOSED! Thanks to the streetcar, Boys Town will probably close now, too, and all of those kids will be homeless.

-Omaha Reddit, probably

I've decided that I can't look at a single streetcar related post on the Omaha subreddit because it is overwhelmingly filled with critical, often downright false comments. The expectation that a large transit project will materialize overnight and that there should be no disruption at all (especially to vehicular traffic) has no basis in reality. The vitriol aimed at the streetcar specifically, and at any and all development in the core more broadly is insane.

Reddit also ignores that half of small businesses close within 5 years even in normal times. I'm not saying that construction can't be disruptive, but downtown has always had plenty of turnover.

On this past Grow Omaha they opened the show with having recently visited businesses in Blackstone and on the Downtown route. They were able to find parking maybe a block away. It’s not impossible to access these businesses. People just need to make an effort beyond, god forbid, not being able to park right out front. It’s just like the people biatching about no parking downtown when there are generally more than half empty garages a block away at most from the Old Market.

Recently the Izzy's Pizza guy went off on his usual misinformation blame the streetcar rant on FB only to later in the same thread invite people to his parking lot adjacent to the building. Even before streetcar construction started he was whining about a lack of business. I doubt he was unaware of forthcoming streetcar construction prior to signing a lease at his off the beaten path location. Maybe location is as important as they say. Maybe it’s also important to have regular customer friendly hours instead of the random food truck like hours instead of apologies on facebook for not having enough employees or running out of food when business is good. Izzy’s is the epitome of how not to run a business 101. Or you can just blame the streetcar.

[arch_RP_planner]

I can't believe the streetcar construction. I tried to take the Boys Town exit off Dodge last night around 9pm and it was CLOSED! Thanks to the streetcar, Boys Town will probably close now, too, and all of those kids will be homeless.

-Omaha Reddit, probably

I've decided that I can't look at a single streetcar related post on the Omaha subreddit because it is overwhelmingly filled with critical, often downright false comments. The expectation that a large transit project will materialize overnight and that there should be no disruption at all (especially to vehicular traffic) has no basis in reality. The vitriol aimed at the streetcar specifically, and at any and all development in the core more broadly is insane.

Okay, long rant/TED Talk incoming:

I think both sides have valid concerns, and I know, even though Omaha feels like its always under construction, its 10x more apparent right now, as getting around downtown is quite the challenge (specifically now that the 10th St Bridge is closed). I do think both sides are somewhat responsible for the consequences being faced due to construction. I don't know if there was a better way to go about sectioning off parts of the roads for the construction, but it does make it a nightmare to navigate. BUT AGAIN, there is AMPLE on and off street parking in the urban core, people just need to get off their high horse and recognize walking for an extra 300' isn't going to rue the day.

In addition, I was out in Blackstone grabbing dinner Saturday night, and yes, the construction made walking down Farnam a maze, but there were still ample people out and about (weather was 50, windy and rainy, so people are still out and about.) Regarding people *not knowing* ample parking exists, I feel the businesses should be actively sharing additional information regarding accessibility. This kind of info should be all over business socials and websites. Proactive communication can make a big difference. I am not saying this is on the businesses solely, but for the businesses that have left, Bad Seed stated the closing of Harney St for the new bridge was a factor, but they had just opened a second location (very costly) and also wanted to spend more time with their kids.... so its not JUST because of the streetcar..

Again, I feel horrible that locally loved businesses are struggling, and that goes on all of us to keep supporting these businesses, but to everyone complaining about the streetcar being a waste, "At the end of the day, people will always complain about construction, and the streetcar being a flashy construction hot spot makes it an easy target, but these improvements will significantly upgrade the infrastructure and accessibility for decades to come, not to mention allow Omaha to effectively grow. It’s a short-term headache for long-term gain.”

*Side note, then I'll hop off the soap box... Omaha being about 1/3 urbanized and 2/3 suburban-esque means that the urbanized area will have to make up for the lack of property taxes collected on the 100+ sq miles of single family homes out west, meaning if you want the city the stay afloat, you need to realize we are about out of developable land, meaning we need to densify. AND THAT IS A GOOD THING, PEOPLE WANT GOOD URBANISM.

(Plus, Omaha has the potential to avoid the disaster of every other mid-large sized city in the US has faced when booming in urbanization, and that is to avoid reactive development/infrastructure/planning measures all together, and rather taking proactive measures to match our needs and prospective demand before it happens.)

[SinCity2Omaha]

I can't believe the streetcar construction. I tried to take the Boys Town exit off Dodge last night around 9pm and it was CLOSED! Thanks to the streetcar, Boys Town will probably close now, too, and all of those kids will be homeless.

-Omaha Reddit, probably

I've decided that I can't look at a single streetcar related post on the Omaha subreddit because it is overwhelmingly filled with critical, often downright false comments. The expectation that a large transit project will materialize overnight and that there should be no disruption at all (especially to vehicular traffic) has no basis in reality. The vitriol aimed at the streetcar specifically, and at any and all development in the core more broadly is insane.

Reddit also ignores that half of small businesses close within 5 years even in normal times. I'm not saying that construction can't be disruptive, but downtown has always had plenty of turnover.

On this past Grow Omaha they opened the show with having recently visited businesses in Blackstone and on the Downtown route. They were able to find parking maybe a block away. It’s not impossible to access these businesses. People just need to make an effort beyond, god forbid, not being able to park right out front. It’s just like the people biatching about no parking downtown when there are generally more than half empty garages a block away at most from the Old Market.

Recently the Izzy's Pizza guy went off on his usual misinformation blame the streetcar rant on FB only to later in the same thread invite people to his parking lot adjacent to the building. Even before streetcar construction started he was whining about a lack of business. I doubt he was unaware of forthcoming streetcar construction prior to signing a lease at his off the beaten path location. Maybe location is as important as they say. Maybe it’s also important to have regular customer friendly hours instead of the random food truck like hours instead of apologies on facebook for not having enough employees or running out of food when business is good. Izzy’s is the epitome of how not to run a business 101. Or you can just blame the streetcar.

Interesting that you mentioned Izzy's as I also saw another FB Thread where he was openly criticizing the project and I asked him if he was aware that all of this has been in the works for 10+ years.

He did reply and state that the owner of the building downplayed the issues that would be caused by the construction along the route while selling the positive aspects. As a commercial real estate agent myself, I suspect that he was unrepresented and thus was not properly advised. Just goes to show how important it is to have a competent agent who can get you that information.

I also wanted to make a suggestion as I feel that we could systemically break down the anti-streetcar rhetoric we see on social media by creating a set of facts that we could then share online to try and shift the narrative.

Here are some points that I feel could really help change the narrative to start it off (Feel free to add and revise as necessary)

1. The construction of the streetcar is not just an investment in public transportation; it also includes a revitalization of the infrastructure underneath the urban core which was in dire need of addressing irrespective of the streetcar. It seems like most of the negative comments are implying that the streetcar is the only reason for the construction which is simply untrue. The infrastructure work was needed and this construction would still have occurred otherwise, but at least we are getting a 2 for 1 project.

2. Some claim that it will fail to produce any development along the route. These people must never go to the Urban Core because there are more apartment units in the pipeline then I have ever seen in the Urban Core. Maybe we could make a list of projects occurring along the route so that we can show that it is already having a positive impact?

3. Some claim that this is a "tourist trolley" and only goes a few blocks and thus no one will ride it. Along with point #2, I think that people who claim this have not actually seen how many people reside within walking distance of this loop. It will serve the densest part of Omaha and will serve residents, businesses and entertainment destinations along the route. A tourist trolley would be focused on shuttling people to and from the CWS or the Zoo.

At the end of the day, I feel like many people are simply misinformed about what this project is actually about and have completely ignored all of the progress that has already happened as a result of this project starting up.

I will gladly continue to fight this misinformation because I have followed this project for many years and understand the positive impact it can make for the city.

TLDR: Streetcar good, reddit bad

[almighty_tuna]

At the end of the day, I feel like many people are simply misinformed about what this project is actually about and have completely ignored all of the progress that has already happened as a result of this project starting up.

I will gladly continue to fight this misinformation because I have followed this project for many years and understand the positive impact it can make for the city.

Absolutely! And welcome to the forum!

[skinzfan23]

Without being as long-winded, I completely agree on your post about showing the benefits. I have mentioned this to many naysayers already. The infrastructure (water and utility lines) are in some cases over 100 years old and need to be replaced at some point. Same for the Farnam and Harney bridges (they are just moving it up 10-15 years or so) If only some of these people could watch that segment from the KC streetcar and the improvements done and how is changed the area, they might be persuaded. As also mentioned, if everything was up to a vote for the public, we wouldn't have the Holland Center, CHI Health Center, the improved downtown parks, Bob Kerrey bridge and on and on.

[arch_RP_planner]

Just a quick synopsis of everything happening in the urban core. Hoping these data points help people realize the shear scale of redevelopment going on. Keep in mind this does not include anything occuring in Aksarben, Little Bohemia, or the newer Highlander District.

Streetcar + Infrastructure

Maintenance facility completing in 2026
Track work continues through 2027
2028 opening could align with major downtown milestones
Around $1.8B in pre-track development
Connects Blackstone → Midtown → Downtown → Riverfront, unlocking next-phase infill

Eppley Airport Transformation

2027: new main terminal and concourse (~80% complete)
2028: final demolition and north-wing expansion

UNMC Project Health/Edge District

Extending to 2030: 350-ft hospital tower
Over 1M sq ft of clinical and research space
Edge District Expands UNMC's tech hub space, while adding an extension of the urban core.
The Catalyst Project, Big Grove Brewery opened 2025

Cultural + Residential Growth
Riverfront Parks and Luminarium, opened 2022-2023
Omaha Children’s Museum opening in 2027
CHI Convention Expansion opening in 2027
The Beam opening in 2028
5-story garage near expressway ramps opening late 2026/early 2027
Other residential projects U/C or Recently Completed: 37 West, The Arthur, The Artisean, The Oxford, Brickline, Nova, Dizzy mule, the Frame
Office to Res Conversions: DUOmaha, First National Center

Creighton + Builders District (Fly Together)

~1,000+ apartments
100k+ sq ft mixed-use space
10–15 story hotel
True Campustown style district, really helps to connect the various districts of North Downtown through infill

Millwork Commons Momentum

One 300-unit complex open (2024)
Two more totaling 500 units near completion
600-stall city garage under construction
Future 10th st extension to 11th across Cuming

Mutual of Omaha Tower

Of course, Mutual's 677' skycraper, topping out steel late Oct/early Nov, and complete next fall


Keep in mind, all of this is going on in a timeframe which construction costs, including labor and materials, are pushing projects 1.5x the budget needed in 2020 alone. Omaha will be fine, people need to realize that we have not seen this level of growth in the urban core since Omaha's first boom in the 1890s/early 1900s.

Sorry to add to the novel we've made on this page, but again, the city is changing every single day, you either hop on with and enjoy the ride or you get left in the dust.

[Omaha Cowboy]

Thanks for taking the time to post that..

Great Synopsis …

Ciao..LiO…Peace

[stadsborgare]

One common criticism I see from opponents of the streetcar project is they say "why can't you do the same thing with a bus?" and I try to explain that business owners and future residents can invest their futures in a streetcar that they cannot do with a bus.

First of all, tracks are imbedded in the ground. The route cannot easily be changed. A business will not be left high and dry because Metro ups and decides to make some route changes.

Secondly, a person can easily see where a streetcar goes, because the tracks make for a really good visual aid in that matter. One doesn't have to consult an app on their phone to find out where the bus goes. A streetcar tells you visually. That's huge.

And thirdly, tourists will use it in addition to local residents. Tourists don't want to figure out our bus maps. And the streetcar will give them a much cheaper option than Uber to reach points of interest, like the Joslyn, the Rose, the Orpheum, Holland, Steelhouse, Childrens Museum, Riverfront Parks, Old Market, and all the many clubs, bars and restaurants that will be located along the route for same reasons stated above. The streetcar is a magnet. Development along it will snowball making the route more and more attractive each coming year. A bus can't do that.

[SinCity2Omaha]

Just a quick synopsis of everything happening in the urban core. Hoping these data points help people realize the shear scale of redevelopment going on. Keep in mind this does not include anything occuring in Aksarben, Little Bohemia, or the newer Highlander District.

Streetcar + Infrastructure

Maintenance facility completing in 2026
Track work continues through 2027
2028 opening could align with major downtown milestones
Around $1.8B in pre-track development
Connects Blackstone → Midtown → Downtown → Riverfront, unlocking next-phase infill

Eppley Airport Transformation

2027: new main terminal and concourse (~80% complete)
2028: final demolition and north-wing expansion

UNMC Project Health/Edge District

Extending to 2030: 350-ft hospital tower
Over 1M sq ft of clinical and research space
Edge District Expands UNMC's tech hub space, while adding an extension of the urban core.
The Catalyst Project, Big Grove Brewery opened 2025

Cultural + Residential Growth
Riverfront Parks and Luminarium, opened 2022-2023
Omaha Children’s Museum opening in 2027
CHI Convention Expansion opening in 2027
The Beam opening in 2028
5-story garage near expressway ramps opening late 2026/early 2027
Other residential projects U/C or Recently Completed: 37 West, The Arthur, The Artisean, The Oxford, Brickline, Nova, Dizzy mule, the Frame
Office to Res Conversions: DUOmaha, First National Center

Creighton + Builders District (Fly Together)

~1,000+ apartments
100k+ sq ft mixed-use space
10–15 story hotel
True Campustown style district, really helps to connect the various districts of North Downtown through infill

Millwork Commons Momentum

One 300-unit complex open (2024)
Two more totaling 500 units near completion
600-stall city garage under construction
Future 10th st extension to 11th across Cuming

Mutual of Omaha Tower

Of course, Mutual's 677' skycraper, topping out steel late Oct/early Nov, and complete next fall


Keep in mind, all of this is going on in a timeframe which construction costs, including labor and materials, are pushing projects 1.5x the budget needed in 2020 alone. Omaha will be fine, people need to realize that we have not seen this level of growth in the urban core since Omaha's first boom in the 1890s/early 1900s.

Sorry to add to the novel we've made on this page, but again, the city is changing every single day, you either hop on with and enjoy the ride or you get left in the dust.

This is exactly what I was hoping for, thank you for providing us all with an excellent summary!

[Garrett]

Just a quick synopsis of everything happening in the urban core. Hoping these data points help people realize the shear scale of redevelopment going on. Keep in mind this does not include anything occuring in Aksarben, Little Bohemia, or the newer Highlander District.

Streetcar + Infrastructure

Maintenance facility completing in 2026
Track work continues through 2027
2028 opening could align with major downtown milestones
Around $1.8B in pre-track development
Connects Blackstone → Midtown → Downtown → Riverfront, unlocking next-phase infill

Eppley Airport Transformation

2027: new main terminal and concourse (~80% complete)
2028: final demolition and north-wing expansion

UNMC Project Health/Edge District

Extending to 2030: 350-ft hospital tower
Over 1M sq ft of clinical and research space
Edge District Expands UNMC's tech hub space, while adding an extension of the urban core.
The Catalyst Project, Big Grove Brewery opened 2025

Cultural + Residential Growth
Riverfront Parks and Luminarium, opened 2022-2023
Omaha Children’s Museum opening in 2027
CHI Convention Expansion opening in 2027
The Beam opening in 2028
5-story garage near expressway ramps opening late 2026/early 2027
Other residential projects U/C or Recently Completed: 37 West, The Arthur, The Artisean, The Oxford, Brickline, Nova, Dizzy mule, the Frame
Office to Res Conversions: DUOmaha, First National Center

Creighton + Builders District (Fly Together)

~1,000+ apartments
100k+ sq ft mixed-use space
10–15 story hotel
True Campustown style district, really helps to connect the various districts of North Downtown through infill

Millwork Commons Momentum

One 300-unit complex open (2024)
Two more totaling 500 units near completion
600-stall city garage under construction
Future 10th st extension to 11th across Cuming

Mutual of Omaha Tower

Of course, Mutual's 677' skycraper, topping out steel late Oct/early Nov, and complete next fall


Keep in mind, all of this is going on in a timeframe which construction costs, including labor and materials, are pushing projects 1.5x the budget needed in 2020 alone. Omaha will be fine, people need to realize that we have not seen this level of growth in the urban core since Omaha's first boom in the 1890s/early 1900s.

Sorry to add to the novel we've made on this page, but again, the city is changing every single day, you either hop on with and enjoy the ride or you get left in the dust.

I would add in that the city is studying expansions with UNMC that could be open in time for the main route and a second route for North Omaha as well.

[arch_RP_planner]

I know Mayor Ewing wanted to see the streetcar system double as a development driver/urbanization kickstarter, as well as a ethical transit system that connects both North and South Omaha... I do remember him saying a line up and down 24th street would be a goal of his, but I think to make this as useful as possible, this line would need to go all the way down 24th st to Q, and at least up to Lake St on 24th, maybe connecting over the 75 fwy to Highlander. (Current streetcar planning shows a potential extension/sub line up 30th st, but I do not think that would be a very successful line.)

The original plan for the OG line was to have the main line fully operational around the same time UNMC announces how the streetcar will connect to their campus, with the *potential* (more of a rumor that I've heard, most likely not plausible) to extend down Saddle Creek to Center all the way out to Aksarben. That is for sure a long shot, but there are so many good routes to be able to pick from in the urban core when looking at streetcar corridor feasibility studies. 13th St to the zoo IMO is still one of the better options for the streetcar, given the entire Dahlman (Vinton/Little Bo/Little Italy) area is one of the more dense neighborhoods in town, Little Bo is really developing, and yes, though serving a strong tourist concern, would be good for full urban connectivity.

My other crazy idea here. Streetcar line that goes from Benson down Radial to Cuming, then all the way to 10th before it makes its loop around 8th/10th/capitol/farnam before turning back north and repeating. I would also say that the OG line needs to have its ending station up off of 11th st in Millwork Commons once they extend 10th to 11th across Cuming.

These are my initial full-scale streetcar system concepts, based on existing density, room for growth, access to amenities, restaurants, shops, stores etc.

Side note about the CAF Turbo 100s Omaha purchased:

They have max speeds up to 50 mph, meaning that while running along a corridor with a posted speed limit of 35, these would be more than capable of running the same speed as traffic. I fear the Benson line would have the least amount of density around the line, but would provide permanent routes from North Central Omaha to downtown, which could really help connectivity in this part of town, plus gives both Benson transit access to downtown, and finally, adds another line Creighton's campus is on/nearby, giving the students transit access to the majority of the innercity neighborhoods they would want to be able to go to, car free.

[nebport5]

Since the UNMC hospital funding was obviously an issue I’d think the UNMC streetcar extension could be in jeopardy(at least for the near future)if they were going to pay for the extension.

[Garrett]

I know Mayor Ewing wanted to see the streetcar system double as a development driver/urbanization kickstarter, as well as a ethical transit system that connects both North and South Omaha... I do remember him saying a line up and down 24th street would be a goal of his, but I think to make this as useful as possible, this line would need to go all the way down 24th st to Q, and at least up to Lake St on 24th, maybe connecting over the 75 fwy to Highlander. (Current streetcar planning shows a potential extension/sub line up 30th st, but I do not think that would be a very successful line.)

The original plan for the OG line was to have the main line fully operational around the same time UNMC announces how the streetcar will connect to their campus, with the *potential* (more of a rumor that I've heard, most likely not plausible) to extend down Saddle Creek to Center all the way out to Aksarben. That is for sure a long shot, but there are so many good routes to be able to pick from in the urban core when looking at streetcar corridor feasibility studies. 13th St to the zoo IMO is still one of the better options for the streetcar, given the entire Dahlman (Vinton/Little Bo/Little Italy) area is one of the more dense neighborhoods in town, Little Bo is really developing, and yes, though serving a strong tourist concern, would be good for full urban connectivity.

The grant the city got from the FTA specifically said they were studying a line up 19th, over on Lake to 16th, and then up to Locust, or about half of what State Sen. Wayne proposed back in the 2023 Leg. Session that would have ran up to Fort St and then over to the airport.

On UNMC, I was doing some work studying two way street conversions in Summer 2024, and talked to the head of the Blackstone BID. At the time, he said UNMC was trying to figure out how to possibly run the streetcar down to 48th street on Farnam, which would serve all of the new development there.

[CompSci99]

Just an opinion, but in my mind an extension to UNO/AKSARBEN should be the priority when it comes to any future extensions. Imagine what it would do for enrollment numbers and both UNO and UNMC. Sure, a bus line already technically connects the Aksarben area to the Blackstone/UNMC general area, but in this case a modern streetcar is more attractive than a standard bus line. This is especially true to college students who are considering entertainment and transportation access when choosing schools to attend.

[Garrett]

Just an opinion, but in my mind an extension to UNO/AKSARBEN should be the priority when it comes to any future extensions. Imagine what it would do for enrollment numbers and both UNO and UNMC. Sure, a bus line already technically connects the Aksarben area to the Blackstone/UNMC general area, but in this case a modern streetcar is more attractive than a standard bus line. This is especially true to college students who are considering entertainment and transportation access when choosing schools to attend.

Getting to UNO and Aksarben would be a bit of a challenge I think. If it continued west along Farnam or Dodge, I don’t think you’d be able to get a lot of good new development west of Saddle Creek. Running on Farnam would put it right through the single family homes of Dundee-Happy Hollow, which probably aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Even if it ran on Dodge, say by crossing on 49th st and 49th Ave as a couplet I feel like NIMBY issues prevent enough development to make the the construction costs worth it, particularly in such a relatively small business district.

Running down Saddle Creek would be a challenge due to its fun tendency to turn back into its namesake. I don’t know how flood plain regs for the corridor would allow for making a particularly walkable district.

Leavenworth would probably be the best corridor, following the old streetcar route that run down to 60th St, Woolworth Ave, then 63rd St. There’s a decent number of developable pockets along the corridor, and it might allow the streetcar to even enter Aksarben via Shirley St.

[Busguy2010]

The best route is to follow the foundation already there. Omaha has changed some, but the city was built around the streetcar system, and the routes are there plain to see. I can't dream up a more effective system than to just effectively rebuild the old one. They were some really smart people over a hundred years ago, yet here weve been debating for decades with all our crazy technology and innovation. They would have had this shlt done 15 years ago lol.

[Garrett]

https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid= ... sp=sharing

Just a reminder of what the network looked like in 1927, and you see lots of routes that could still work today

[nebport5]

For potentially getting to Benson, I like that 40th St N. to -> Hamilton -> Military Ave route vs a Cuming/Saddle Creek route.

[Busguy2010]

I do see a connection to Aksarben and UNO south campus. Not so much the North Campus. Just no need up there, as ORBT fulfills the need more efficiently. And I don't see any future with a streetcar running along Dodge.

An extension to Aksarben is an obvious one, and would probably follow the same old route. Maybe a terminus at Baxter Arena and new actual transit center to accompany it.

[locoluke]

https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid= ... sp=sharing

Just a reminder of what the network looked like in 1927, and you see lots of routes that could still work today

That Nebraska Traction and Power line to Ralston was also extended to Papillion. It followed along the south/east side of the Missouri Pacific. Once the line was south of the CB&Q, it curved to meet what's now Ralston Ave. at 78th St. and followed it to 84th St. where it turned due south. It then followed 84th south to its southern terminus near 3rd(?) and Washington. The grade through Ralston is visible on some of the 1938-1955 aerial imagery on dogis.org.

The Omaha Southern was another interurban running out of that ran from 24th and O to Fort Crook. It used the O&CB to Harrison St. where it jogged to the east, leaving the road but still following the same south-southeast trajectory. From there, it's harder to describe.

tl;dr here's a map with both Omaha interurbans on it

[Garrett]

https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid= ... sp=sharing

Just a reminder of what the network looked like in 1927, and you see lots of routes that could still work today

That Nebraska Traction and Power line to Ralston was also extended to Papillion. It followed along the south/east side of the Missouri Pacific. Once the line was south of the CB&Q, it curved to meet what's now Ralston Ave. at 78th St. and followed it to 84th St. where it turned due south. It then followed 84th south to its southern terminus near 3rd(?) and Washington. The grade through Ralston is visible on some of the 1938-1955 aerial imagery on dogis.org.

The Omaha Southern was another interurban running out of that ran from 24th and O to Fort Crook. It used the O&CB to Harrison St. where it jogged to the east, leaving the road but still following the same south-southeast trajectory. From there, it's harder to describe.

tl;dr here's a map with both Omaha interurbans on it

Thanks for adding these! The map I used (https://omahalibrary.contentdm.oclc.org ... 4/id/1489/) shows lines outside of Omaha but not super clearly. I'll add these

[Busguy2010]

Its crazy how different a priority streetcars were to the city back then, to have a rail line all the way to Papillion when there was next to nothing down there at the time. It HAD to be there because it was the only way to get around. I can't imagine how many billions of dollars, and years of planning such a line would take today.

[halgy]

Leavenworth would probably be the best corridor, following the old streetcar route that run down to 60th St, Woolworth Ave, then 63rd St. There’s a decent number of developable pockets along the corridor, and it might allow the streetcar to even enter Aksarben via Shirley St.

I think the entire stretch of Leavenworth could be a pretty good route at some point. There is a lot of room for infill and upscaling development.

[CompSci99]

Leavenworth would probably be the best corridor, following the old streetcar route that run down to 60th St, Woolworth Ave, then 63rd St. There’s a decent number of developable pockets along the corridor, and it might allow the streetcar to even enter Aksarben via Shirley St.

I think the entire stretch of Leavenworth could be a pretty good route at some point. There is a lot of room for infill and upscaling development.

The shirley idea is especially attractive since there is an empty lot at the corner of s 64th and shirley. It's right next to the UNO dorms and the inner rail parking garage, could make a nice bus-streetcar transfer station or an end of line terminal.

[Garrett]

With Mayor Walsh losing reelection in Council Bluffs, it looks like the already decently longshot bid for a CB streetcar is dead, as Jill Shudak has expressed opposition.

[almighty_tuna]

I do not support the streetcar project for several reasons:
1. Lack of Federal Funding—The project would require a new bridge across the Missouri River, which currently lacks secured federal funding. Without that commitment, the financial burden would fall heavily on our community. A second bridge at 16th would also be needed to cross the railroad tracks to downtown.
2. Construction and Maintenance Costs – A streetcar system is costly. Even Omaha, with a much larger population and tax base than ours, could struggle to sustain its streetcar. I do not believe we need to invest in a new type of transportation at this time, when we have tried this in the past.
3. Population Size and Alternatives – With a population of about 63,000, I believe our priority should be improving rapid bus transportation routes and exploring forward-looking options such as automated vehicles rather than investing in outdated streetcar technology.
4. Safety Concerns – The proposed design routes the streetcar past Thomas Jefferson High School, raising serious safety concerns for students and the community.

[locoluke]

I've typed up and then deleted a few responses to Shudak's statement, but I think I'll instead just leave the Conclusions section of the 2020 First Ave. Transit Alternatives Analysis here instead. I feel it addresses and maybe even agrees with a few of her concerns:

>1st Avenue Streetcar:The preferred approach to transit in 1st Avenue is streetcar because its slow speeds are most compatible with the walking and biking activity envisioned for the corridor. In addition, the associated development
scenario provides a high amount of opportunity. However, conventional streetcar is only operationally and financially
feasible if it connects to downtown Omaha and Omaha moves forward with streetcar. Future innovations in
technology could allow a comparable form of low‐speed transit that is less expensive than streetcar. Transit in the 1st
Avenue corridor is the most impactful approach but will require many years of planning and preparation.

>Broadway BRT could be implemented in the meantime to integrate with Omaha’s new ORBT system, spur additional
initial development activity, and reinforce the role of transit in the corridor. BRT serves a different function (rapid
travel) than streetcar and could continue to operate if and when streetcar is implemented.

[TitosBuritoBarn]

I do not support the streetcar project for several reasons:
[...]
4. Safety Concerns – The proposed design routes the streetcar past Thomas Jefferson High School, raising serious safety concerns for students and the community.

I don't follow. Is she stereotyping the type of people who use transit?

[Busguy2010]

I do not support the streetcar project for several reasons:
[...]
4. Safety Concerns – The proposed design routes the streetcar past Thomas Jefferson High School, raising serious safety concerns for students and the community.

I don't follow. Is she stereotyping the type of people who use transit?

The bus has been running by there for forever, so I didn't conclude that. My assumption was about having a train running through their campus. It seems a moot point by her, to me anyway, because there'd likely be at stop at 25th, so it's not like it would be barreling through there.

Either way, if they don't want it, we certainly don't need it.

[halgy]

I don't think her objections would be insurmountable if they actually wanted to overcome them. Still, extending ORBT down Broadway is a no brainer, to the point that I'm amazed it isn't even talked about. What are the odds that she actually pursues that?

[stadsborgare]

I went to Cunningham's in Blackstone last night for dinner on the occasion Creighton basketball was having their season-opening game. Also of course, to support them during construction.

And I got to thinking. You know... I could have eaten dinner at Cunningham's, then hopped on the street car, went TO the game, and returned to Cunningham's for a nightcap before returning to my car.

Scenarios to look forward to...

[almighty_tuna]

I don't think her objections would be insurmountable if they actually wanted to overcome them.

No, not at all, but it's already set up for failure. She's labeled it "outdated streetcar technology" without any qualifiers about what that actually means and with that context is happy to send it to the voters, who are generally apathetic and myopic when it comes to transportation that's not a car. She doesn't have to say no; the voters will do that for her and she can skirt the issue with no accountability while still touting she supports infrastructure growth:

The city can do this by investing in infrastructure. The roads, utilities, broadband, and public spaces help enable growth,

Unfortunately she's stuck in the "oh, but we're just a small town of 63,000" mentality with a safe, low expectation vision for the city. If I were selling Council Bluffs to its future, I'd say:

Our town of 63,000 is the second-largest municipality in a metro of a million people, boasting quick and easy access to a reimagined international airport and a growing metropolitan downtown, all while maintaining a lower cost of living and lower taxes. We can build the future of Council Bluffs with new, dense development connecting young professionals and their family to a revitalized urban center backed by over two billion in new investment. We will recruit healthcare workers and provide free transportation to one of the nation's top research hospital campuses. Our investment into growing inter-city connections will grow our tax base and provide resources to reinvest in our own downtown, promoting walkability and a relaxing alternative to the bustle of our metropolitan urban center.

[arch_RP_planner]

Our town of 63,000 is the second-largest municipality in a metro of a million people, boasting quick and easy access to a reimagined international airport and a growing metropolitan downtown, all while maintaining a lower cost of living and lower taxes. We can build the future of Council Bluffs with new, dense development connecting young professionals and their family to a revitalized urban center backed by over two billion in new investment. We will recruit healthcare workers and provide free transportation one of the nation's top research hospital campuses. Our investment into growing inter-city connections will grow our tax base and provide resources to reinvest in our own downtown, promoting walkability and a relaxing alternative to the bustle of our metropolitan urban center.

[/quote]

I don't understand how or why Council Bluffs refuses to want to grow... they have been in a housing shortage for who knows how long, the city has put so much into their riverfront parks, revitalizing downtown, modernizing the Lake Manawa area and S 24th St, but it just seems they are always so complacent.

I will always be thankful that Omaha at least has a river twin that is actually a decent city rather than a St Louis or Memphis situation, but CB has SO MUCH potential for growth, especially since they cleaned up the old industry on the 1st Ave corridor; that is PRIME TOD Material. At the end of the day, they can do as they please, stay conservative in their willingness to take risks/chances, but I truly believe that CB is the key to Omaha really booming, specifically the urban core... good urban cores have development on all sides, and the river puts us at a bit of a disadvantage for direct urbanized connectivity, though both sides of the riverfront are world-class/soon-to-be world-class parks and greenspace, which really helped bring people back to the river.

Remember, though, it took how many years for Omaha to finally get the streetcar going?? CB needs to figure out their development potential first, and then start to apply transit overlays to increase their ceiling, though I do believe right now is the perfect time to START the analysis.

Also, Tuna, you should've been the mayor with that pitch. That was concise, great talking points, and wasn't outlandish with anything; it's all very plausible. The other thing to remember is that they can do this without pricing people out of their homes, simply because there is AMPLE developable land all the way to downtown.

PS: If CB were to prioritize traditional-style infill and reuse of its historic buildings, downtown Council Bluffs could develop a full-scale urban district with a character and vibrancy all its own, similar in vibe and culture to the Old Market, but distinctively CB/Kanesville.

[riceweb]

She's labeled it "outdated streetcar technology" without any qualifiers about what that actually means

It's pretty clear that people who say streetcars are outdated mean that autonomous, trackless systems are the future (you see these in China now, for instance). I personally think the Tesla / Boring Company tunnel approach used in Vegas and Nashville has a ton of potential, as a form of public transportation without shared spaces (people frankly don't want to stand next to--and this is the best possible scenario--stinky armpits on a bus), with grade separation and autonomous vehicles in a tunnel system that is far far cheaper to build than the at-grade rail systems that streetcars operate on.

There are innovations out there, but Omaha insisted on building a streetcar system at probably the worst possible time. I don't think any other systems of this type will be built after Omaha's: we are likely the last one in the world that will be built.