Bag Secured: North Omaha's Economic Momentum is Reaching New Heights

NORTH OMAHA – There's a different kind of sound on the streets of North Omaha these days—it's the sound of local entrepreneurs winning and culture taking center stage. The "New North" isn't just a slogan; it's a movement, and the economic scoreboard is looking real good for the community.

The Power of the Black Dollar

Mayor John Ewing recently dropped a gem: Omaha has seen a 95% jump in Black-owned businesses with employees. That growth is visible the moment you step onto the 24th Street corridor. The new North Omaha Visitor Center at 24th and Burdette is officially open, featuring a coffee shop, gift shop, and gallery that celebrates our history while fueling today's economy.

Just a few blocks away, North Omaha Music and Arts (NOMA) is keeping the block hot with weekly jazz sessions and contemporary live shows. It's more than music; it's an incubator for our local talent to connect and create. And keep your eyes peeled for the Great Plains Black History Museum's new permanent facility—a 20,000 sq. ft. landmark that will include a cafe, theater, and world-class gallery space.

Forever North: A $65M+ Game Changer

Leading the charge is Carmen Tapio and the team at North End Teleservices. They aren't just creating jobs; they're building a legacy with Forever North, a massive $65 million to $80 million redevelopment at the corner of 24th and Lake. This isn't just a new corporate headquarters for the state's largest Black-owned business—it's a mixed-use powerhouse. We're talking new retail storefronts, a daycare center, and even more housing with roughly 80 to 100 new apartments and single-family homes in the plans.

Investing in the Vision

The momentum is being fueled by some serious backing. State Senators Ashlei Spivey and Terrell McKinney are leading the charge with the "New North" Initiative, ensuring that the $1.5 billion flowing into our streets actually stays in our pockets. From the Omaha Airport Business Park to the massive upgrades at Levi Carter Park, we're seeing a historic level of investment. The bag is being secured, the vision is clear, and North Omaha is officially the place to be for anyone looking to build a legacy.