Little Bohemia, Omaha’s historic neighborhood, is experiencing growth with the addition of new businesses and apartments. However, this growth brings an increase in traffic that raises concerns for accessibility and safety. Dave Hempel, owner of Sheet Metal Works located along 13th, has observed a rise in trucks coming to the area daily, which may cause issues with unloading.
The Business Improvement District (BID) has approved development last year and is now focusing on addressing safety and accessibility concerns in the neighborhood. The industrial businesses outside of the current BID want to ensure they can continue to operate effectively while improvements are made.
To address these concerns, the new board will prioritize better lighting, improved parking options, creating additional spaces for parking outside the main corridor, and enhancing streetscapes to control traffic flow. Chicago Lumber owner Rick Hullinger recognizes the importance of these enhancements as the neighborhood continues to expand.
City councilmembers are set to review and potentially approve the BID at an upcoming meeting, signaling progress towards making Little Bohemia a more vibrant and safer community for all residents and businesses.