The graphic above, dubbed “The Fishbone,” identifies the main axes of development in Omaha.
Omaha City Council Approves Groundbreaking Zoning Code Package

OMAHA – Omaha is the first city of its size to develop and implement a comprehensive urban design plan.

The Omaha City Council voted 7-0 Aug. 14 to approve a groundbreaking package of zoning code revisions and additions that will bring life and weight to the city’s Urban Design Element, a planning tool designed to improve the quality of development in Omaha while protecting and enhancing the city’s natural environment.

“This package will truly shape the look and feel of all parts of our city,” said Mayor Mike Fahey.  “No longer will Omaha be subject to someone else’s design standards.  These visionary measures will positively impact Omaha’s livability, the visual impression Omaha creates and the sense of community that residents and visitors alike will enjoy in the years ahead.”

The Urban Design Element’s 73 recommendations center on three components:  Green Omaha, which seeks to preserve and enhance the city’s natural setting and public park system; Civic Omaha, which seeks to define and improve the city’s civic places and public image; and Neighborhood Omaha, which seeks to preserve and enhance the diverse character of the city’s residential neighborhoods. 

Since the creation of the Element, Omaha by Design – a local nonprofit dedicated to changing the face of Omaha through the use of urban design principles and citizen engagement - has focused on implementing its recommendations.  The highest priority has been giving these recommendations legal authority by amending the city’s existing zoning and subdivision codes and adding new municipal code provisions.

A volunteer Technical Advisory Group comprised of development and design professionals as well as others representing civic interests helped write the code revisions and additions in conjunction with the city’s planning staff, city officials, Omaha by Design and the project’s nationally renowned urban design consultants.

Omaha Planning Director Steve Jensen said the package will result in long-term improvements to Omaha’s streetscapes, signage, landscaping, building design, pedestrian networks and public spaces, as well as the connections between the city’s neighborhoods, commercial centers and civic districts.

“This package captures the vision Omahans have for the future of their city,” said Connie Spellman, director of Omaha by Design.  “We’ve never been interested in remaking Omaha in another city’s likeness.  We’re interested in being Omaha – the best Omaha we can be.  The passage of this package will help make that happen.” 

Spellman also cited the donors for their financial support of the project.  “These businesses, organizations and individuals truly believe in doing what it takes to make Omaha a better place,” she noted.  “We thank them for their generosity and commitment.”

To review the complete package of revisions and additions, visit the web at www.omahabydesign.org. For more information, contact Spellman at 402.342.3458 or connie@omahabydesign.org.