On October 1, Bellevue city leaders gathered with representatives from Mattel, American Resort Management and other project partners to showcase the first interior renderings of the upcoming Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterpark. The attraction will bring beloved Mattel brands such as Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher‑Price and UNO to life inside a climate‑controlled venue.
City‑wide economic impact
Harrison Johnson, Director of Economic and Community Development for the City of Bellevue, emphasized that the waterpark is part of a broader private‑investment strategy. He explained that the agreement with Goldenrod Companies and American Resort Management will drive sales‑tax revenue and create jobs while expanding the Bellevue Bay Entertainment District.
“In terms of hitting our 5, 10‑year and 15‑year plans, at 20 years we hope to have the whole 200 acres developed. The city wants to see the whole 200 acres of the entertainment district developed. This is well within our timeline to get that done. So it’s a huge step forward in envisioning and actually getting that and bringing that vision to life,” Johnson said.
Phase II of the entertainment district
The city also signed an exclusive negotiation agreement to move forward with Phase II of the Bellevue Bay Entertainment District. The deal covers roughly 35 acres of developable land that will host additional amenities such as dining, amusement, retail, lodging and other entertainment options. Over the coming months, the development team will work toward finalizing the terms that will allow the city to release the remaining parcels for private development.
Community benefits and timeline
City officials highlighted that the waterpark and surrounding district are designed to serve both residents and visitors, offering family‑friendly recreation that aligns with Bellevue’s vision of a vibrant, mixed‑use community. The indoor nature of the park ensures year‑round operation, which is especially valuable in Nebraska’s climate.
While specific construction dates have not been announced, the city expects the waterpark to break ground within the next year, with the broader district development unfolding over the next two decades. The partnership model—private investors providing capital while the city facilitates land use and infrastructure—mirrors successful entertainment‑district projects in other Midwestern cities.
Local response
Local business owners and families expressed optimism about the project’s potential to boost tourism and create new employment opportunities. “Having a world‑class indoor waterpark right here in Bellevue will draw families from across the region and give our kids a safe, fun place to enjoy their favorite toys,” said a nearby restaurant manager.
The city plans to keep the public informed through regular updates at council meetings and community forums, ensuring transparency as the project progresses.
Looking ahead
With the interior designs now public and the negotiation agreement in place, Bellevue is poised to advance one of its most ambitious development initiatives to date. The collaboration between municipal leaders, Mattel and seasoned developers underscores the city’s commitment to fostering economic growth while preserving a family‑focused, community‑oriented environment.
Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
