July 25, 2003

Developments on the Riverfront under consideration

The city-owned land under consideration for this development is located between the new Gallup University and the Nebraska entrance to the pedestrian bridge that will be built over the river.

Not everyone, however, feels that this is the best use for this piece of prime property. Former Nebraska senator Bob Kerry, who obtained federal funding for riverfront development, had a vision of quiet open spaces along the river. He worries that the city is giving up important public space at the base of the bridge that promises to become the city's signature image.

At least three of the proposed designs include buildings taller than 70 or 80 feet which could detract from the 215-foot high towers that will be part of the bridge's signature look. Another concern is the need for public parking for those who want to use the bridge.

Oral presentations are expected to be made by the firms who have submitted their proposals in the next few weeks. Below are the architect's rendering of four of the five proposals:
 

Broadmoor Development, Omaha - 375 aptartments including a 10-story high rise on top of a four-story parking garage, 35,000 square feet of office space, 10,000 square feet of retail/commercial space; $38 million. Noddle Development, Omaha - Four-story office building with food service or commercial space in phase one, two-plus-story office building ot 40 residential units in phase two; $20.9 million.

Omaha Riverfront Development Group, Park City, Utah - Eleven-story, 38-condo high rise, a 17-townhouse complex, office and commerical space, plus public art on the river; $14.4 million. Signa Development, Omaha - 12-story combination hotel with 120 rooms, 72 apartments, Bennigan's restaurant and health club; $27.6 million.

North Central Group of Wisconsin also submitted a proposal. We do not have any current information, however, on their vision.