You’ve probably heard about the North Omaha Trail — a multimodal 8-mile “Grand Loop” of active transportation that’s connecting people, places, and possibilities. Maybe you’ve even walked a piece of it. Maybe you joined a workshop, took the survey, or just wondered, how does a trail like this actually happen? Did you know the idea for the North Omaha Trail started when planners realized North Omaha didn’t have a major trail — and the land was perfectly flat for it? Cue the lightbulb moment.
Let’s take a ride through the past, present, and future of the Trail — with community at the wheel.
A few years ago, the idea was simple: connect people, neighborhoods, and opportunities across North Omaha with a trail built not just through the community, but by the community.
Back in 2022, we kicked things off with Phase 1 — a 1.6-mile trail segment running from 30th & Sprague to 24th & Ohio (home of the Fabric Lab). We learned early on that equity in construction isn’t just about bids — it’s about who has access. When the first construction bid didn’t meet our goals for local hiring, we paused, regrouped, and rebid. It took more time — but opened doors for conversations to include North Omaha-based small and emerging businesses. It laid the groundwork for something much bigger.
The goal? A safe, active, beautiful space where walking, biking, and gathering come naturally. Big shout-out to everyone who filled out a survey, came to a workshop, or opened their door when we came knocking — you’ve shaped every inch of this project.
Drumroll, please...We’ve officially completed the 30% design plans for Phase 2 — from 24th & Ohio to the Baby Bob Bridgeat 10th & Fahey, weaving through Creighton’s campus and downtown connections. This phase is funded by an $8M DED grant, and it’s set to be completed by 2027.
Here’s what’s been happening recently with Community Voice at the Center:
100+ survey responses from online and in-person outreach
Two rounds of door-to-door canvassing in neighborhoods along the route
A trail walkthrough with Spark and the design team Lamp Rynearson to observe site conditions and opportunities
It’s clear: neighbors want the trail to be safe, accessible, connected to nature, and reflective of the history and future of North Omaha.
And no — 30% doesn’t mean we’re 30% done with the trail. It means our design work is 30% complete — think of it like a blueprint in progress.
Did you know? The term “30% plans” is used in architecture and engineering to describe an early, but detailed, set of drawings that show layout, features, and early feedback. It’s basically the trail’s rough draft!
Here’s where it gets exciting — and where YOU can stay engaged.
We're refining the plans using all the community feedback.
Design Wrap-Up this Fall and Construction Kicks Off Early Spring
We’re preparing to incorporate enhanced trailheads, safety features, utility coordination, and some neighborhood art along the way.
We’re working hard to secure new funding to continue the momentum for the remining two Phases (3 & 4).
Curious about lighting? We are too. (Solar lighting? We’re on it.)
And guess what? We're exploring how to bring in small North Omaha contractors to be part of the build — because building power is just as important as building trails.
And yes, we’re thinking about trail data — how many people use it, when, and how. This helps us prove that trails = impact.
This Trail Is More Than a Trail the North Omaha Trail is about more than getting from A to B. It’s about:
Jobs & Opportunity: We’re working to open real doors for small North Omaha contractors.
Sustainability: A carbon-free way to get around, plus more trees, better air, and fewer cars.
Culture: From public art to placemaking events, this trail celebrates North Omaha’s identity.
Safety & Accessibility: Thoughtful design ensures it's for everyone — young, old, stroller, skater, or scooter.
Want to Get Involved?
Drop by the Fabric Lab at 2514 N 24th St, follow us on Instagram, or sign up for updates. You can help us name new trailheads, dream up features, and advocate for the future.
The North Omaha Trail is growing — and it’s growing with you.
