Northwest Omaha could soon host its own Olympic‑size swimming venue. The Greater Omaha Aquatic Foundation, a local nonprofit dedicated to expanding aquatic opportunities, purchased two parcels at 108th Avenue and Blondo Road for a 50‑by‑25‑meter, eight‑lane pool with 1,200 seats.
Why the pool matters for Omaha families and the economy
Foundation director Tom Beck explained that the organization currently rents space at seven different facilities across the city. “We are renting out pool space all over town,” he said. “In the summertime we are operating out of seven different pools.” A dedicated home would eliminate that scramble and give local swimmers a stable training base.
President RJ Lebbert added that the new pool would allow Omaha to host short‑course meets that currently require travel to other states. “It will allow us to have those short‑course meets here as well, where we can bring teams from Kansas City, St. Louis, and Minneapolis,” Lebbert said. “They can all come here instead of us traveling to see them.” He noted that the facility would also provide central access for visitors staying at Omaha hotels and dining at local restaurants, further supporting family‑friendly tourism.
Funding and timeline
The project still needs $7 million in private and public support before construction can begin. Lebbert said once the funding gap is closed, the build would take roughly 14 months. Omaha voters will consider a nearly $30 million bond measure on November 3 to fund nearby park improvements, including a major soccer‑field remodel at Tranquility Park on 120th and Military. Those improvements are part of a broader effort to make the city more attractive for regional tournaments.
Community impact
Beyond elite competition, the pool would serve Omaha’s growing youth swimming programs and provide a safe, family‑oriented environment for aquatic recreation. “Whenever we want to compete against some of the top talent from across the country, we are always travelling because there is not a facility here to host them,” Lebbert said. “This pool gives central access around the city to those who need it when they are visiting hotels and restaurants and those types of things.”
Local business leaders have expressed optimism that the venue will draw out‑of‑state teams, filling hotel rooms and boosting restaurant sales during meet weekends. The foundation’s plan aligns with the city’s long‑standing goal of expanding Omaha’s sports‑tourism infrastructure while preserving family values and community cohesion.
Next steps
The Greater Omaha Aquatic Foundation will continue fundraising efforts and work with city officials to integrate the pool into the broader Northwest Omaha development plan. If the $7 million target is met and the bond measure passes, construction could break ground early next year, putting Omaha on the map as a regional hub for competitive swimming and family recreation.
Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
