04.23.26 Update: Hard Reset Launch and The Road Ahead

April 23, 2026

Alliance Members,

While the challenges remain significant, we are moving from reacting to the construction to actively planning around it. Here is the latest update on the "Hard Reset," our upcoming events, and the long-term roadmap for the corridor.

1. CRITICAL CORRECTION: $1 Parking Registration

In my previous update, I provided the wrong domain for employee parking registration.

The Correct Email: parking@cityofomaha.org (Please ensure you use .org).
The Action: If you previously emailed the .com address, please re-send your staff registration details to the correct address. We expect the $1 registration system to be fully operational soon.

2. The Hard Reset Launch: April 30th

The City has finalized the details for the official campaign launch. We need a strong showing of business owners to demonstrate the energy and resilience of the businesses.

When: Tuesday, April 30th @ 10:30 AM.
Where: Smokin’ Oak Patio (3010 Farnam St).
The Goal: We want the media to see a unified front of businesses ready to welcome customers. The message is simple: Apple Maps and Waze will get you here; the corridor is open for business.

3. The Construction Roadmap (Map Attached)

I have attached a map that provides the most clarity we’ve had to date regarding the "Mainline" construction phase. As utility work winds down over the next three months, please note the following:

Farnam St: For the zones on the map on Farnam, the North half of the street will be closed for the durations shown. This will look like what is currently going on in front of Crescent Moon and Little India.
Harney St: For the zones on the map on Harney, the South half of the street will be closed for the durations shown. This will look like what is currently going on in front of Crescent Moon and Little India.
Farnam Bridge: The bridge is targeted to reopen before the end of the year
16th Street: Expect a north/south closure starting this summer for several months.

The Takeaway: While these long, obtrusive closures still suck, this is the first time I’ve felt like I truly have a handle on what to expect and when to expect it.

4. Navigation & "This Way" Assets

GPS: Apple and Waze remain the gold standard for navigating the current closures. We continue to pressure the City regarding Google Maps' technical delays.
Digital Signage: The "This Way" social media kit is available at bit.ly/thiswayomaha. It contains templates and assets you can use to show your customers the best way to reach your front door.

5. Board of Directors: Call for a 5th Member

Our leadership team currently consists of myself, Sam Morley (The Reading Room), and Hussain Albahrani (Financial Risk Specialist). We are still looking for a fifth board member to assist with strategic planning, board governance, and advocacy.

The Search: Nominations and self-nominations are open. We are looking for someone eager to help shape the SIA’s future and protect our business community. The search will remain open until the role is filled.

6. Neighborhood Block Parties: Reclaiming the Streets

Dates and locations are still TBD, but Katie Mock is developing the plan for two major block parties—one for Downtown and one for Midtown/Blackstone—targeted for late June or July.

The Vision: These will be high-energy events with live entertainment designed to drive big crowds into the area and showcase that getting to the strip isn't as difficult as people think.
Vendor Exposure: Businesses from throughout the neighborhood will be invited to ply their wares and set up stalls, giving everyone direct exposure to new foot traffic.
The Ask: We are seeking private sponsors to cover the majority of the expenses, but we are requiring the City to provide trash services, security, and barricades.

We are no longer just asking for help; we are trying to change the city's attitude on visiting our neighborhoods. I look forward to seeing everyone at Smokin’ Oak on the 30th.

Respectfully,

Clark Ross Chairperson, Streetcar Impact Alliance