ith
all the new developments coming to completion around Omaha's new
riverfront, the problem of what to name them seems to always cause
a controversy both in city office buildings and with the general
public. Remember the havoc that was created when trying to name
the riverfront park now known as Lewis & Clark Landing?
A pedestrian bridge that will connect the new convention center to
Lewis & Clark Landing is no exception.
Earlier this week, two Omaha city council
members voiced their opinions and are trying to sell
their idea to other members of the council who will ultimately
make the final decision. Frank Brown wants to name the bridge
after slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.. He
believes naming the bridge after King would serve as a symbol for
bringing diverse groups together. He would also like to eventually
see the words to King's "I have a dream" speech
inscribed on the bridge. Franklin Thompson has a completely
different idea in mind. He would like to make the bridge a tribute
to local Heisman trophy winners Eric Crouch, Johnny Rodgers &
Nile Kinnick. His proposal includes four exhibits along the
bridge, one for each of the Heisman winners with a fourth that
would represent a future Omaha winner. Thompson, who has been
working with City Planning and Parks Departments to create plans
for the exhibits, says they could include both audio and
interactive materials. He feels this would be a big draw for
tourists. Frankly, I feel there are probably many other options
out there that may better represent the city of Omaha and the
people who live and work here. We would like
to hear your ideas for naming the bridge. If you have an idea
and would like to offer it as an option, please submit your
comment to us.
| EDITOR'S NOTE: We previously
identified the bridge in this story as the pedestrian
bridge that will span the Missouri River from Omaha to
Council Bluffs. We sincerely apologize for the error we
made in reporting this story. I must be getting sun
stroke from all the work we are doing in trying to
resurrect the Nauti Nan-Sea! |
|