Papillion, Neb. – A beloved downtown landmark is receiving a new purpose. The city’s former public works garage, long‑standing on the streetscape, has been converted into four modern townhomes. The project, one of Papillion’s first Tax Increment Financing (TIF) initiatives, aims to spur economic growth and attract families to the historic core.
Preserving History While Adding Homes
Developers from Urban Village Development, led by co‑owner Jerry Reimer, kept the building’s original signage and repainted it to retain the “Papillion Public Works” lettering. “We didn’t want to cover it up; we wanted to honor the building’s history,” Reimer explained. New stonework on the adjacent structure was chosen to match the historic character, though some details could not be perfectly replicated.
The four units consist of two‑ and three‑bedroom layouts designed to appeal to families seeking a downtown lifestyle. Two of the homes have already been pre‑leased, and the remaining two will become available for rent on November 1.
Creating a Pocket Neighborhood
Beyond the renovated garage, the developers are planning a small “pocket neighborhood” behind the building. Construction of these additional apartment‑style units is slated for the May‑July 2027 timeframe, with each building completed sequentially over a four‑week cycle.
Community Reaction
Local business owners welcome the influx of residents. “It’s usually pretty empty here, so it would be good to see people,” said Luba Carlson, owner of Kalina Art Studio. “Having more people will make it a destination rather than just a location. I cannot wait to see more folks spending time downtown.”
Economic Impact
The TIF financing model allows the city to capture future tax revenue generated by the development to repay the upfront costs. City officials view the project as a catalyst for further investment in downtown Papillion, reinforcing the area’s historic charm while providing needed housing.
Reimer emphasized that the development balances new construction with respect for the past. “We’re putting stone on the building next door to try and match the historic character, but there are just some things new construction can’t replicate,” he said.
Looking Ahead
As the townhomes near completion, the project illustrates how local governments can leverage historic preservation and smart financing to foster community growth. Residents and visitors alike can anticipate a livelier downtown, with more families calling Papillion home and supporting local businesses.
Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
