Lincoln welcomed a new chapter for its historic downtown on November 11, when city leaders and developers broke ground on MURAL, a $35 million affordable‑housing development built on the former Pershing Auditorium site at 225 S. 16th Street.
Housing for families and veterans
The five‑story, mixed‑use building provides 90 one‑ and two‑bedroom apartments reserved for households earning 60 % or less of the area’s median income. Among the first residents are 11 veterans, honored on Veterans Day for their service and given a stable, affordable home in the heart of the city.
Features and community space
MURAL includes more than 18,000 sq ft of ground‑floor commercial space, an underground parking garage, a fitness center, and a fifth‑floor community room with an outdoor balcony overlooking Centennial Mall. Developers are actively seeking local businesses to fill the retail spaces, promising new jobs and services for downtown shoppers.
Preserving Lincoln’s heritage
The project’s name pays tribute to Pershing Auditorium’s iconic mosaic mural, which was carefully preserved and relocated to Wyuka Cemetery earlier this year. “Pershing was Lincoln’s gathering place for more than half a century. MURAL is designed to keep it one,” said Drew Sova, executive vice president and general counsel of White Lotus Group.
Construction timeline and occupancy
Construction began in September 2024, with major work wrapping up in December 2025. The first residents moved in January 2026, and as of the ribbon‑cutting ceremony the residential portion is more than 80 % occupied. Developers expect the building to be fully leased by the end of November.
Economic impact
By converting a historic block into affordable housing and commercial space, MURAL supports Lincoln’s goal of a vibrant, walkable downtown where families, veterans, and businesses can thrive together. The development aligns with the city’s broader strategy to increase housing options for low‑ and moderate‑income households while preserving the cultural legacy of the area.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
