The Missing Middle: How Omaha Revitalized Its Downtown Core
Mon Oct 28
3:00 PM — 3:20 PM (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time
Resorts World Las Vegas - Level 2, Lily Ballroom, Area A
Winner of a 2024 ULI Americas Open Space Award, The RiverFront in Omaha is the culmination of a nearly 40-year movement to restore access to the Missouri River. Three underused and disconnected parks were transformed into a 72-acre contiguous waterfront park that unites the downtown core with the river. Landscape architects Jim Burnett and Kyle Fiddelke of OJB will share how the master planning and design process ignited a bold public/private partnership to realize an ambitious civic vision for Omaha.
The park connects the entertainment and cultural destinations with new businesses, residences, and office developments. Over 2.5 million visitors have enjoyed the park since its phased opening in 2022 in more than 1,200 free public events annually with 65 program partners. Over $500 million in economic development gains have already been realized, with an additional $1.2 billon linked to a streetcar development. Learn why public/private investment in urban open space catalyzes growth and improves multiple quality-of-life indicators.
Speakers
President OJB Landscape Architecture
Jim Burnett, FASLA is a leading voice in contemporary landscape practice through his writing, advocacy and dedication to creating meaningful spaces that challenge the conventional boundaries of landscape architecture. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from Louisiana State University, Jim founded the Office of James Burnett in 1989 and has continued to lead the firm for more than 35 years. To date,…
Partner OJB Landscape Architecture
Kyle Fiddelke, FASLA has been a key member of OJB's design collective for the past 25 years. A native of Iowa and graduate of Iowa State University, Kyle led the master plan and design process for the Omaha Riverfront Revitalization, spanning over 70+ acres. In addition to its Excellence for Americas Award, the project has been cited with Fast Company's Innovation by Design Award for…