Where there’s life, there’s construction. And Omaha seems to have a lot of that going on right now. In previous posts, we’ve talked about multiple big projects that are happening in the metro area in the near future. Now, there’s further talk of some exciting new projects. We’re talking BIG projects. For example, the R & R Commerce Park and the new headquarters of HDR. And then what about the new Papillion Community Center? Let’s take a closer look at these projects.
Commercial Construction – R & R Commerce Park
R & R may be new to the Omaha market, but they have an interesting concept for a new warehousing project in western Omaha. The site for the new commerce park occupies nearly 80 acres along Highway 50 south of Highway 370. The end result will be over one million square feet of flexible industrial space. “We’re trying to build in more flexibility,” said Mark Rupprecht President of R&R Realty Group, a West Des Moines-based company that will own and manage the industrial park.
Construction on the first 250,000-square-foot building is now underway. The building will be open for occupancy next summer. Interestingly, the space boasts a few unusual features. According to R & R’s website, Warehouse I will feature a 32-foot clearance height, natural warehouse light, ESFR (Early Suppression, Fast Response) fire sprinkler system, dock and drive-in capabilities, parking expansion and access to fiber.
Corporate Construction – HDR Headquarters
You may have noticed if you’ve driven past Aksarben Village recently — there’s a massive building going up right in the middle of the area. That’s HDR’s future 10-story headquarters. Omaha.com says the architectural and engineering firm’s 245,000-square-foot office building will house retailers on its first floor. To the east, a new parking structure will contain ground-level shops and restaurants. HDR will lease the headquarters from owner Noddle Bradford Holdings. Noddle Cos. is the project developer. Jay Noddle of Noddle Cos. said the price tag for the office building, parking garage and retail alleyway is about $110 million. He called HDR a “perfect fit” that will further energize the village.
Meanwhile, the corporate employer of 1,150 people will impact Omaha in other ways as well. The Children’s Hospital and Medical center has offered to purchase HDR’s current location at 84th and Dodge — an excellent move for both companies. But it’s not such welcome news for Westside Community Schools. The school system will lose about $200,000 in tax revenue if the hospital completes the purchase. Those on Westside’s board of directors understand the value of growth for the hospital, but at the same time can’t help a little resentment. Especially after the drop in the District 66 commercial tax base in each of the past two years.
Public Construction – Papillion Community Center
In addition to talk of many other recreation centers in the works, Papillion has its own idea. If voters approve funding for the project, residents could see a community center and large recreation complex off of 96th Street and West Lincoln Road. Then construction on a very large project would begin. The proposed facility and complex includes a community center, field house and an outdoor sports complex that would include several baseball and soccer fields.
Following La Vista’s announcement of a multisport complex near Cabela’s, Papillion’s team says the two complexes won’t compete with each other. So, what’s next for Papillion? Funding. The City of Papillion has proposed to increase local sales tax by a half-cent. This, based on 2014 sales tax revenue numbers, would bring $2.6 in the first year.
Summing it Up
With so much growth happening in Omaha, there are lots of opportunities for business growth. In the meantime, are you properly maintaining and optimizing your HVAC? If you’re thinking of upgrading your workspace in any way, let us recommend that you think about energy efficiency. Save yourself some money and hassle down the road! Contact us today to brainstorm improvements!