Omaha is set to see a significant investment in its public parks, thanks to an upcoming collaboration between the city’s administration and local philanthropists. This initiative, highlighted in Mayor John Ewing’s first State of the City address, promises more than just temporary fixes for maintenance issues.
Mayor Ewing announced that undisclosed philanthropic partners will contribute $5 million to this effort, with the city aiming to match this amount. These funds are intended to address gaps identified by a city-hired consultant who assessed the current state of Omaha’s park system.
Omaha boasts over 250 parks, encompassing approximately 10,000 acres of green space, 130 miles of trails, and a variety of recreational centers, sports fields, and courts. However, the consultant’s findings revealed challenges such as inadequate staffing, inconsistent park conditions, neglected athletic fields, and uneven recreational services. The assessment highlighted a $5 million annual shortfall for basic park operations and maintenance, as noted by Mayor Ewing.
“Accepting philanthropic support does not mean sacrificing public land or use,” Ewing emphasized. “Let me be crystal clear on that point. Just as with Gene Leahy Mall or Lake Cunningham, city properties remain city properties. What is public stays public.”
A notable administrative change announced during the address was the promotion of Jacquelyn Morrison, the former economic development director. With the City Council’s approval, Morrison will become the city’s first director of transformation and strategic partnerships. Her role, along with her salary and benefits, will be fully funded by philanthropic donors for three years, during which she will report directly to the mayor.
In his speech, Mayor Ewing also addressed other priorities, such as affordable housing, homelessness, and economic development. He shared updates on public safety, noting progress in closing the staffing gap in Omaha’s sworn police ranks, fulfilling a major campaign promise. The mayor referred to two-year labor agreements with the Omaha Police Officers Association and Police Management, approved last month, which “represent stability so the city can focus on recruitment.”
“Given upcoming classes, we expect to be at full staffing by early 2027,” Ewing stated.
Additionally, Ewing mentioned the city’s ongoing efforts to develop a joint headquarters for Omaha’s police and fire departments. This ambitious project will require a referendum to seek general obligation bonds to cover the costs.
