A big project in downtown Omaha is another sign that our city is bustling.
Today, we learned that a major hotel and many entertainment and dining options will greet College World Series fans in 2017, by the time the ump yells " play ball."
Construction is moving on schedule for a summer opening date for the hotel and businesses that are a part of this project. It's all a short walk away from event centers like Century Link and TD Ameritrade Park, which developers say, makes it a much buzzed about asset to downtown.
This construction is the bones of what will become the Omaha Downtown Marriott in the Capitol District. In about six months time, developers say this will become a bustling dining and entertainment destination that'll revitalize the neighborhood.
Local businesses say the development will increase foot traffic downtown.
"I think it's going to bring a lot more traffic down here. It's especially downtown - it's kind of off the beaten path. So I think it'll be really good for all businesses over here," said Vicki Rush, General Manager Downtown DJ'S Dugout
The Omaha Marriott Downtown will act as the development's anchor. The district will include five building spaces with apartments, dining and entertainment for those who want to experience a slice of urban living.
The Omaha Marriott Downtown will be 12 stories. The $205 million dollar Capitol District will include residential apartments, 140,000 square feet of Class A office space, and 90,000 square feet of retail space for restaurants, shops and entertainment venues.
Developers are in the process of selecting retail tenants.
"We're not just looking at a bunch of national tenants, we're looking for strong regional tenants and strong local tenants and a lot of start up business as well too. So it's going to have a nice unique flavor to it that I'm getting pretty excited," said Mike Moylan, Shamrock Development.
The goal is to bring a space to the downtown area that'll bring in plenty of visitors for major events and conferences. With 15-20 retail spaces, a plaza outdoor area and a hotel featuring event spaces and roof-top pool, project managers say the Capitol District will revitalize the neighborhood.
"It's a good buzz. I think everyone is really excited. I think people realize that this is another stepping stone to the growth, the big picture of what's great for Omaha, " said Steve Hilton, General Manager of Omaha Downtown Marriott at Capitol District.
