RALSTON, Neb. (KMTV) -- — The City of Ralston is looking to redevelop an area of their downtown, but some are concerned it could hurt business.
The Ralston "Hinge" Master Plan looks to bring new residents and business to the downtown area from Main Street all the way to 72nd Street. There are about 13 lots open for building.
The Ralston City Council approves a motion so the mayor can negotiate with a potential developer on a parking lot across from the fire station. They'd like to build a 30-unit apartment complex.
"We've got the most beautiful downtown in the world with a 5-way intersection and it's just a picturesque place and I can just see it bustling with people, and businesses, and new restaurants, and new things if we get the people here," Ralston Mayor Don Groesser explained.
The Ralston Area Chamber of Commerce met with local businesses on Thursday to discuss any issues. Some owners are concerned about losing that lot.
“It would be super beneficial to get that growth in the area however the concern is with accessibility for parking for not only businesses who have employees who park in that area but also for people who want to come to our businesses especially during events," said Kayla Dixon, Owner of Bombshell Beauty in Ralston.
Business owners learned a study will be conducted to decide if more parking is needed should the complex be built, or if there's already enough.
Mayor Groesser says they plan to build another parking lot in downtown if the apartments are constructed.
Ralston expects the entire master plan for the "Hinge" to take 4-5 years to complete.
