Embarking on a mission to reshape urban living, several development projects in Omaha aim to provide affordable housing for key community members. By fostering accessibility and inclusivity, these initiatives hope to strengthen the city’s social fabric, enabling educators, emergency responders, and other essential workers to live within the community they serve.
Scott Dobbe, partner and president at GreenSlate Development Partners, highlighted the challenges faced in launching such projects. He praised organizations like Front Porch Investments, the city, and the Lozier Foundation for their pivotal roles. “Because the simple truth is this: a city works when the people who make it run can afford to live in it,” Dobbe stated. “Teachers and firefighters, healthcare workers and tradespeople, students and young professionals, when they can choose to live in the heart of the city, close to not only their work but to all that Omaha offers – that’s how you build the fabric of a great city.” With a $964,084 loan secured, the project’s construction is slated to begin in spring 2027.
1053 Park Ave.
A 50-unit senior housing complex is set to rise at 1053 Park Ave., with building scheduled to commence this fall. Foundations Development is spearheading this endeavor with a $1.5 million loan. The development will feature five units for households earning less than 40% of the area median income (AMI), 22 units at 50% AMI, and 23 units for those earning less than 60% AMI.
Foundations Development, founded by Rob Woodling in 2006, has contributed approximately 1,200 affordable units to Nebraska’s housing landscape. Woodling emphasized, “It’s 100% of our focus, day in and day out. It’s what we eat, sleep and breathe, and we’re going to hope to continue doing it for a very long time.”
111 N. 38th St.
In the vicinity of Blackstone, a historic building dating back to 1941 will undergo substantial renovations, transforming five housing units. Gold Coast Partners, LLC has been allocated $475,000 for purchasing and refurbishing the property, with the project anticipated to wrap up by winter 2027. Planned enhancements encompass a new roof, upgraded heating and cooling systems, electrical and plumbing improvements, and enhanced landscaping.
