03-13-2018 City Council Regular Meeting Packet
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session Packet
City Council:
Linna Dee Donaldson
Michelle Fitzke
Chuck Haase
Julie Hehnke
Jeremy Jones
Vaughn Minton
Mitchell Nickerson
Mike Paulick
Roger Steele
Mark Stelk
Mayor:
Jeremy L. Jensen
City Administrator:
Marlan Ferguson
City Clerk:
RaNae Edwards
7:00 PM
Council Chambers - City Hall
100 East 1st Street, Grand Island, NE 68801
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 1 / 212
City of Grand Island Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Call to Order
This is an open meeting of the Grand Island City Council. The City of Grand Island abides by the Open
Meetings Act in conducting business. A copy of the Open Meetings Act is displayed in the back of this room
as required by state law.
The City Council may vote to go into Closed Session on any agenda item as allowed by state law.
Invocation - Pastor Mark Oberbeck, Northridge Assembly of God, 3025
Independence Avenue
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
A - SUBMITTAL OF REQUESTS FOR FUTURE ITEMS
Individuals who have appropriate items for City Council consideration should complete the Request for
Future Agenda Items form located at the Information Booth. If the issue can be handled administratively
without Council action, notification will be provided. If the item is scheduled for a meeting or study
session, notification of the date will be given.
B - RESERVE TIME TO SPEAK ON AGENDA ITEMS
This is an opportunity for individuals wishing to provide input on any of tonight's agenda items to reserve
time to speak. Please come forward, state your name and address, and the Agenda topic on which you will
be speaking.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 2 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item C-1
Presentation of Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan Phase 1 and
2
Council action will take place under Resolutions item I-3.
Staff Contact: Mayor Jeremy Jensen
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 3 / 212
Council Agenda Memo
From:Marlan Ferguson, City Administrator
Meeting:March 13, 2018
Subject:Veterans Legacy Project Master Plan
Presenter(s):Marlan Ferguson, City Administrator
Background
In 2016, the State of Nebraska conveyed to the City of Grand Island various tracts of real
estate that were a part of the Central Nebraska Veterans Home. The property conveyed
includes tracts north of Nebraska Highway 2 between Broadwell Avenue and Webb Road
and South of Highway 281 as well as the agricultural lands south of Highway 2 and north
of Capital Avenue. The City issued an RFP seeking proposals from a qualified consulting
firm to assist in the development of a reuse plan for these lands. Olsson Associates was
the chosen firm to assist in the development of the plan.
Discussion
The City of Grand Island, Nebraska has the opportunity to re-imagine what the Central
Nebraska Veterans Home and surrounding 640 acres may become in the future. As such,
Olsson Associates, Inc. and their partner Ochsner Hare and Hare underwent a master
planning process, guided by input from project stakeholders, City staff members, and
residents of Grand Island. This document details that master planning process, the basis
for the master plan’s recommendations, and the master plan itself. The plan is not a static
document. While it was compiled as a reflection of existing conditions and stakeholders’
and the public’s interests at the time, the plan will have important implications for future
site redevelopment, growth, and development projects. The resolution reflects the
adoption of the Master Plan.
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
1.Adopt the Resolution authorizing the agreement with Olsson Associates, Inc.
2.Refer the issue to a Committee
3.Postpone the issue to future date
4.Take no action on the issue
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 4 / 212
Recommendation
City Administration recommends that the Council adopt the Resolution.
Sample Motion
Move to approve the resolution authorizing the Adoption of the Veterans Legacy Project
Master Plan for the former Central Nebraska Veterans Home in Grand Island.
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VETERAN’S LEGACY PROJECTMASTER PLAN
Embracing, Creating, and Preserving the Legacy of Heroes
March 13, 2018
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1Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
City Council
Mayor
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 2
Ward 2
Ward 3
Ward 3
Ward 4
Ward 4
Ward 5
Ward 5
Hector Rubio
Mitch Nickerson
Stakeholder Committee
Ryan Kaufman
Sara Bennett
Steve Lamken
Amos Anson
Denise McGovern-Gallagher
Dave Taylor
Pat O’Niell
Al Avery
Brian Gallagher
Chad Nabity
Todd McCoy
Marlan Ferguson
John Collins
Dan Brosz
Virgil Harden
Tracy Overstreet
Steve Fosselman
Acknowledgments
A special thank you goes to everyone who participated in the
planning process for the Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan. This
plan was made possible by the contributions and insights of the
residents, business persons, property owners, and representatives
from various community groups and organizations.
City Council
Jeremy Jensen
Vaughn Minton
Jeremy Jones
Mark Stelk
Roger Steele
Linna Dee Donaldson
Julie Hehnke
Mike Paulick
Mitch Nickerson
Michelle Fitzke
Chuck Haase
Regional Planning Commission
Dean Sears
Derek Apfel
Tony Randone
Stakeholder Committee
Jeremy Jensen
Amy Roberts
Cindy Johnson
Dean Sears
Tawana Grover
Marcie Kemnitz
Will Armstrong
George Ayoub
Jay Vavricek
Linna Dee Donaldson
Lisa Albers
Matt Maser
Mike Gloor
Ray O’Conner
Vaughn Minton
Terry Brown
Chris Rosacker
Tina Meudt
Key City Staff Members
Marlan Ferguson City Administrator
Chad Nabity Regional Planning Director
John Collins Public Works Director
Todd McCoy Parks and Recreation Director
Tim Luchsinger Utilities Director
Tom Barnes Utilities Engineering Manager
Wendy Meyer-Schmidt Public Information Officer
Consultant Team
with assistance from
Canyon Research Southwest, Inc.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 8 / 212
2
rompted by the relocation of the Central Nebraska Veterans Home, the
City of Grand Island, Nebraska has the opportunity to re-imagine what
the Central Nebraska Veterans Home and surrounding 640 acres may
become in the future. As such, the land underwent a master planning process,
guided by input from project stakeholders, City staff members, and residents
of Grand Island.
This document details that master planning process, the basis for the master
plan’s recommendations, and the master plan itself.
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3Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction and History 4 2.0 Market and Site Conditions 10
3.0 Engagement Process 23 4.0 Master Plan 32
5.0 Implementation 48
A. Public Engagement Process and Findings 61 B. Market Feasibility Study 87
Appendices
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4
1.0Introduction and History
Past, Present, and Future
The Grand Island Veterans Home, originally
known as the Nebraska Soldiers and Sailors
Home, opened in 1887. It was the first veterans’
home in the State. Legislative Bill 247, passed
on March 4, 1887, stipulated that not less
than 640 acres be donated for the site of the
Soldiers and Sailors Home. The chosen site
was originally three miles north of Grand Island,
bounded by Highway 281/Airport Road to the
north, Broadwell Avenue to the east, Capital
Avenue to the south, and Webb Road to the
west.
This land was conveyed to the State of
Nebraska in two parcels. Of the 640 acres,
approximately 30 acres have been used to
house veterans and their spouses over the past
decades. The rest of the land has historically
been used for agricultural and recreational
uses.
The Home was originally established to house
only Civil War veterans of the Union Army,
but it was later decided that Confederate
Army veterans were also allowed to reside in
the Home. Subsequent laws were passed to
expand eligibility to veterans from all wars and
conflicts. In 1969, the official name changed to
the “Nebraska Veterans Home,” to reflect all
branches of service.
Since that time, additional soldiers’ homes
have been established throughout the State,
including those in Milford, Norfolk, Scottsbluff,
and Omaha. Funding was eventually pulled for
the home in Milford.
Today, agricultural and recreational uses still
comprise the large majority of the acreage.
Veterans’ uses continue at what is referred to
now as the Central Nebraska Veterans Home.
This veterans’ campus consists of multiple
buildings, all which have housed veterans
and provided support services. Other related
uses occupy the southern half of the property,
including the Veterans Cemetery on the
southwest corner and the United Veterans Club
and Veterans Park on the southeast corner of
the site.
Given the age and condition of the current
facilities, the Nebraska Department of
Administrative Services and Department of
Health and Human Services (operator of the
Central Nebraska Veterans Home) found that
the current Central Nebraska Veterans Home
fails to meet current building standards, and
that its design fundamentally conflicts with best
practices listed in the Department of Veterans’
Affairs’ Community Living Centers Design Guide
(June 2011). Therefore, the State determined
that a new home should be built to meet the
current Community Living Centers standards.
From there, the State appointed a selection
committee to receive proposals from Nebraska
communities to locate the new home. Following
proposal review, the committee recommended
a new location in Kearney to the Governor. The
Governor accepted the recommendation of the
committee.
Following the design process, the State sought
construction bids for the new home. The new
Central Nebraska Veterans Home is scheduled
to open in the fall of 2018. Once opened, all
veterans currently residing in the Grand Island
home will transition to the Kearney home.
Site Conveyance
Given the fact that (1) the State currently owns
and operates the Central Nebraska Veterans
Home and surrounding 640 acres and (2) the
campus holds historical and sentimental value,
specifically to those residing in Grand Island,
the State and the City of Grand Island entered
into an agreement. Upon completion of the new
Kearney home, the State intends to convey the
Grand Island real estate (including the Veterans
Home campus, Veterans Cemetery, and parking
area leased to the United Veterans Club) and
the agricultural and recreational lands currently
leased to the City to the City.
The conveyance will happen in two phases:• Phase 1 - Agricultural land, Eagle Scout
Park, and Veterans Sport Complex• Phase 2 - Land and building currently
holding the Central Nebraska Veterans
Home and Veterans Cemetery
Image Credit: Nebraska Department of
Health and Human ServicesCivil and Spanish American War Members
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5Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Image Credit: Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
Sailors’ and Soldiers’ Home in 1905 (Full Page)
Sailors’ and Soldiers’ Home Administration Building Postcard (Small Left)
Sailors’ and Soldiers’ Home Postcard (Small Right) Excerpt from Legislative Bill 247 (passed on March 4, 1887)
WHEREAS, There are many old soldiers in Nebraska who, from wounds or disabilities received while in the union
army during the rebellion, are in the county poorhouses of this state; therefore be it
RESOLVED, That it is the sense of this Senate that a suitable building be erected and grounds provided for the
care and comfort of the old soldiers of Nebraska in their declining years;
RESOLVED, That a committee of five be appointed to confer with a committee of the House on indigent soldiers
and marines to take such actions as will look to the establishment of a State Soldiers’ Home.
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6
Regional Setting
The City of Grand Island is located in central
Nebraska, approximately 100 miles west of
Lincoln, Nebraska and 140 miles southwest of
Omaha, Nebraska. The community sits north
of Interstate 80, is bisected diagonally by U.S.
Route 30, and divided vertically by U.S. Route
281. Grand Island is often considered a hub of
activity for central Nebraska, and specifically
within its metropolitan statistical area (MSA).
The MSA includes the counties of Hall,
Hamilton, Howard, and Merrick.
Project Boundary
The project site is located on the very northern
edge of Grand Island. In fact, City limits divides
the site. As previously mentioned, the site is
bounded by Highway 281/Airport Road to the
north, Broadwell Avenue to the east, Capital
Avenue to the south, and Webb Road to the
west. The site is bisected diagonally by Old
Highway 2 and the parallel BNSF railroad.
Grand Island, Nebraska
CITY OF GRAND ISLAND
LINCOLN
OMAHA680
480
29
180
80
NEBRASKA
HASTINGS
PROJECT SITE
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7Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Purpose of the Plan
Given the size, importance, and current uses
across all 640 acres, the City of Grand Island
desired to develop a master plan for the
revitalization and development of the former
Central Nebraska Veterans Home land. This
exciting time is building upon a collection of
real assets within the project area, including
the historic buildings, the veterans’ legacy, and
community recreational uses.
It is important to note that no changes will
be proposed to the Veterans Cemetery and
United Veterans Club properties.
This plan will be the City’s official policy guide
for the redevelopment and development of
the project area, developed through the joint
effort of City staff members, stakeholders, and
members of the public. The plan presents a
community vision for the future of the project
area, outlining land uses, development
opportunities, and circulation patterns to
achieve that vision. It also defines the steps to
ensure future success.
At its foundation, the plan acts as a uniting
effort to create a single direction for the
project area, based on public engagement,
site analysis, market realities, and extensive
research. The plan sets expectations,
communicating to the development community
the preferred types of uses and character.
The Planning Process
The planning process largely took place in 2017.
The project team identified a six step process
for development of the plan, including:• Step 1: Discover• Step 2: Engage• Step 3: Envision• Step 4: Narrow• Step 5: Plan• Step 6: Implement
The graphic below details this planning
process, though it is important to understand
that the planning process is not necessarily
linear. It is infused with flexibility to be able
to react to new information and changing
circumstances. In general, each step builds on
the one prior.
Public and stakeholder engagement was a core
element of the plan’s development. After the
initial launch of the planning process, outreach
events and tools were used throughout the
planning process, including a project website,
the City’s social media accounts, in-person
stakeholder sessions, and a public open house.
ENGAGE
Gather information on needs,
desires, and critical issues, and
build consensus.
NARROW
Refine concepts based on
community engagement
process findings.
IMPLEMENT
Set forth critical first steps
to achieve the master plan’s
recommendations.
Continuous
DISCOVER
Collect and analyze existing
site, market, and economic
data.
ENVISION
Develop enhancement,
redevelopment, development,
and infill concepts.
PLAN
Prepare document, illustrating
preferred master plan.
The Planning Process
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8
Using and Maintaining the Plan
It is important to note that the plan is not
a static document. While it was compiled
as a reflection of existing conditions and
stakeholders’ and the public’s interests at the
time, the plan will have important implications
for future site redevelopment, growth, and
development projects.
If attitudes or economic and demographic
conditions change, the plan must be revisited
to ensure its continued relevance and usability.
By reviewing the plan, and the context in
which it was written, the project area’s future
success will continue to be in line with current
stakeholder and public aspirations.
Reviewing the plan may be simplified by
making it available online or in a public
gathering place, such as the Grand Island
Public Library, and by providing assistance to
community members in understanding various
aspects of the document. Issues with the plan
as it is written may arise through these fluid
review processes, ensuring that the plan is a
“living” document.
Existing Plans and Studies
There are multiple plans, studies, and
regulations adopted by the City of Grand Island
that have influenced development and growth
in and around the project area. This section
contains a brief summary of each, along with
any findings important to the project area.
Veterans Athletic Complex Master Plan
The original Veterans Athletic Complex Master
Plan (VACMP) began with the construction of
four ballfields and parking. The second phase
of the VACMP was approved by the City in
April of 2017 and in now under construction.
It includes six new softball fields, concessions
and restrooms, additional parking, a park, and
a splash pad. This plan fully integrates the
VACMP and proposes expanding VACMP to
include six large soccer fields, four futsal fields,
a playground, and a fieldhouse.
Veterans Cemetery Master Plan
A Veterans Cemetery Master Plan (VCMP) was
completed in 2016 to address the nearing
capacity of the Grand Island Public Cemetery.
This plan does not propose any changes to
the Veterans Cemetery, but fully integrates the
VCMP. As part of the VCMP, the City agreed to
maintain the existing Veterans Cemetery and
provide a buffer from surrounding land uses.
Community Housing Study with Strategies for Affordable Housing
A Community Housing Study was completed in
2014 to identify a housing profile and demand
analysis for the City. The Study describes
a Housing Action Plan, which identifies
recommended housing projects and activities.
This Study follows previous studies conducted
in 1982, 2006, and 2009. The implementation
period for this study is from July 2014 to July
2019.
While the Study does not specifically describe
necessary residential development on the
project site, it does include an exhibit from
the City’s current Comprehensive Plan. This
exhibit shows approximately half of the project
area (largely the western half) as an area for
potential housing development.
Comprehensive Development Plan
The Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP)
states that the majority of the project area
should be developed as a public use (e.g.,
city offices, libraries, colleges, universities,
fire stations, hospitals, etc.). This category
is inherently flexible. Eagle Scout Lake and
the surrounding park is designated for parks
and recreational uses, noting that this area
is environmentally sensitive. In addition, the
CDP recommends a larger setback and higher
landscaping enhancements along Highway
281 (Airport Road), as it serves as an entrance
to Grand Island. Finally, the CDP sets forth a
objective to preserve historic buildings, such as
those within the Veterans Home campus.
Image Credit: City of Grand Island, NE
Veterans Athletic Complex Master Plan (Left)
Veterans Cemetery Master Plan (Right)
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9Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
CURRENT NEBRASKAVETERANS HOME
VETERANS ATHLETIC COMPLEX
EAGLE SCOUTLAKE / PARK
VETERANS PARK
VETERANS CEMETERY
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10
2.0Market and Site Conditions
The process of developing a master plan
of this nature requires much thought and
analysis of the project area’s existing state and
context. With this information, well-informed
recommendations and implementation
strategies that properly respond to current
realities can be produced.
To achieve the necessary level of
understanding, the planning team collected all
relevant information and data, as it pertained to
the existing conditions of the project area. Said
information was collected from, but not limited
to, the following resources:
• Site visits by the planning team• Google Earth Pro and Google Maps• City-provided GIS data• City of Grand Island website
(www.grand-island.com) • The Grand Island Independent
(www.theindependent.com)• U.S. Census Bureau• Esri Business Analyst• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics• Natural Resources Conservation Service
(NRCS) Web Soil Survey
The Market and Site Conditions section serves
as a baseline for recommendations provided in
the Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan.
Note that the following section, Engagement
Process, details additional information the
planning team used during the creation of the
master plan. Section 2.0 and 3.0 should be
reviewed and weighed equally.
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11Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Market Feasibility Study Findings
Canyon Research Southwest prepared a Market
Feasibility Study that evaluated the market
potential and redevelopment opportunities for
all 640 acres of the project area. The following
pages summarize the study findings and
recommendations. The full Market Feasibility
Study is provided as an appendix.
Economic and Demographic Indicators
A community’s changing population, household
types, age composition, educational attainment,
and income levels impact the local housing and
commercial real estate markets. Quantifying
these characteristics help project future
demand for commercial space and housing. To
begin, the Grand Island metropolitan statistical
area (MSA), which includes Howard, Merrick,
Hall, and Hamilton Counties, was analyzed.
General findings for the MSA include: • Changing population demographics, a
growing senior population, and an above
average share of households earning
less than $25,000 annually suggests a
rising demand for affordable rental and
for-sale housing and senior housing.• The growth in move-up and luxury
housing will be modest. • The region’s below average educational
levels constrain attainable incomes,
housing values, homeownership levels,
and demand for commercial space.• Job loss over the past decade constrains
commercial and industrial space demand. • The local economy is dominated
by manufacturing, retail trade, and
healthcare jobs with below average
levels of professional jobs in finance,
insurance, real estate, technical, and
management fields.
Population growth is a key component for
generating continued demand for retail space
as well as for-sale and rental housing.
Since 1990, the Grand Island MSA has
experienced steady population growth. From
1990 to 2010 the metro population increased
by 13.8 percent to 81,850 residents. The
current population of the Grand Island MSA is
86,970, up 6.3 percent since 2010. By 2030
the population is projected to increase by 10.7
percent to 96,273 residents.
This population base is sufficient to support a
diverse retail market with continued population
growth fueling additional demand for retail
goods and services, commercial space, and
new residential housing units.
Household formation and the mix of household
types have a direct impact on the composition
of retail sales and housing types. According to
the U.S. Census Bureau, during 2010 a reported
31,535 households resided in the Grand
Island MSA with an average household size
of 2.57 persons. Households with one person
accounted for 27.1 percent of all households
with 33.8 percent of households having
children present. Married couple families
accounted for 52.3 percent of all households,
of which 23.1 percent had related children.
These market area household composition
characteristics would suggest a propensity
for detached single family housing and above
average retail expenditures for household
furnishings, groceries, clothing and accessories,
sporting goods, books, and other family-related
goods and services.
Population Growth Trends
Household Composition
0
10,000
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
70,000
80,000
90,000
100,000
1980 1990 2000 2010 2017 2022
72,709 71,893
77,708 81,850 86,970 90,400
Grand Island MSA Population Growth TrendsMSA Population Growth Trends
MSA Household Size Composition
1 Person
2 People
3 People
4 People
5 People
6 People
7+ People
Household Size
Sales
1 2 3 4 5 6 7+
27%
35%
14%
12%
7%
3%2%
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12
Age is unquestionably an important factor in
consumer identity, since consumption patterns
and financial situation change significantly
throughout an individual’s lifetime. Change
in the relative proportions of age groups in
the Grand Island MSA is expected to have an
important impact on the retailing and housing
industries.
Population Age Distribution From 2017 through 2022, the Grand Island
MSA population is forecast to grow by 3.9
percent, adding 3,430 new residents. Over
the five-year time frame the number of young
adults age 20 to 34 years is forecast to
decline by 179 residents with the empty nester
population declining by 459 residents. Absolute
population gains are forecast to be the largest
for the elderly (2,433 residents), children (638
residents), and family/working adults (629
residents).
These shifts in the age of the market area
population will impact the future demand for
retail goods, personal services, and housing.
16.8%
13.4%
12.6%
11.8%
28.2%
6.3%
20.8%
0.0%5.0%10.0%15.0%20.0%25.0%30.0%
65+
55-64
45-54
35-44
20-34
15-19
0-14
Grand Island MSA Population by AgeMSA Population by Age
A market area’s purchasing power is a function
of consumer population and income levels. As
a market area’s incomes rise the more retail
expenditures are supported.
The current median household income for the
Grand Island MSA of $66,245 exceeds both
$55,391 for Nebraska and $55,775 for the
United States. From 2017 to 2022 the forecast
growth in Grand Island’s median household
income of 9.4 percent is expected to lag behind
that of 14.5 percent for Nebraska as a whole.
By 2022, the median household income for
Grand Island and Nebraska are forecast to be
similar.
Household Income Distribution High-income households with incomes of
$100,000 or more account for 15.8 percent
of all households in the Grand Island MSA,
compared to 23.3 percent of Nebraska
households.
These high income households represent
potential demand for luxury housing and
the ability to support above average retail
expenditures on such consumer items as
food, personal services, apparel, household
furnishings, entertainment, automobiles, and
healthcare.
2.7%
15.1%
12.7%
20.7%
16.4%
10.6%
21.9%
0.0%5.0%10.0%15.0%20.0%25.0%
$200,000+
$100,000-$199,999
$75,000-$99,999
$50,000-$74,999
$35,000-$49,999
$25,000-$34,999
<$25,000
Grand Island MSA Households by IncomeMSA Households by Income
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13Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Higher educational levels for a market area
population generally translate to higher income
levels and retail expenditures. The demand for
office space improves at higher educational
attainment levels as more residents are more
likely to be employed in professional service
and medical professions.
When compared to the statewide average the
Grand Island MSA population is less educated.
To elaborate, 32.7 percent of Grand Island
MSA residents age 25 years and over, a high
school degree or GED is the highest level of
educational attainment, compared to 26.7
percent for the State of Nebraska. A reported
20.0 percent of residents within the Grand
Island MSA have attained a bachelor’s or
advanced degrees, compared to 30.6 percent
statewide and 30.0 percent nationally.
Educational Attainment The Grand Island MSA’s below average
educational attainment levels translate into
lower than average wages, reduced retail
expenditures, and below average spending
on personal services, apparel, household
furnishings, entertainment, automobiles, and
healthcare. The educational attainment levels
limit the demand for professional office space.
Since gains in employment generally fuels
growth in population, income, and retail
expenditures, job growth is a reliable indicator
of general economic conditions and demand
for housing and commercial space.
After peaking in 2008, total employment in the
Grand Island MSA declined during 2009 and
2010 in response to the national recession. Job
growth rebounded from 2011 to 2013 but failed
to match the pre-recession levels. Job loss
resumed in 2014 and by 2016 total employment
was at its lowest level since 2005. Stagnant or
declining employment levels adversely impacts
commercial and industrial space absorption.
Employment Trends Compared to the statewide employment
composition, Hall County supports an above
average share of construction, manufacturing,
retail trade, and transportation and
warehousing. Sectors that Hall County lags
include finance, insurance, and real estate;
professional, scientific, and technical services;
management, administrative, and support
services; and educational services.
41,958
42,459
43,277
44,207
43,650
41,888
42,484
43,416 43,413
42,933
41,964 41,881
40,500
41,000
41,500
42,000
42,500
43,000
43,500
44,000
44,500
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Grand Island MSA Employment GrowthMSA Employment GrowthSales
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
MSA Educational Attainment
Less than 9th Grade
9th to 12th Grade, No Diploma
High School Graduate
Some College, No Degree
Associate’s Degree
Bachelor’s Degree
Graduate or Professional Degree
Education Level
6%
8%
33%
24%
9%
13%
6%
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14
Athletic Facilities Market
The City of Grand Island operates the Veterans Athletic Complex within the northeast quadrant of the project area. The park features four
baseball fields, three adult soccer fields, concessions, restrooms, and parking. Future expansion plans for the park call for the construction of
additional baseball / softball, soccer fields, a splash pad, and futsal fields.
The Grand Island Parks and Recreation Department collectively operates 18 baseball / softball fields and four soccer fields. Based on standards
published by the National Recreation and Park Association, Grand Island is under-supplied by five soccer fields with the supply-demand balance
for baseball fields at equilibrium. The shortage of local soccer fields suggests the Veterans Athletic Complex can easily support the construction
of additional soccer fields. While the national standards indicate no demand for additional baseball fields currently exists in Grand Island, the
six planned new fields will enable the Veterans Athletic Complex to host local and regional baseball and softball tournaments, thus servicing
an expanded geographic trade area. Therefore, the findings of this study conclude that sufficient demand exists to warrant the construction of
additional ball and soccer fields within the Veterans Athletic Complex.
Competitive Retail Market
The project area is not located within one of Grand Island’s existing commercial corridors. The Highway 281 corridor is positioned approximately
one-quarter mile to the west and hosts several large-scale shopping centers occupied by prominent national retailers such as Walmart, Sam’s
Club, Dillard’s, JC Penney, Sears, Best Buy, Kohl’s, TJ Maxx, and Home Depot.
Grand Island serves as a regional shopping destination that supports well above average retail sales volumes. Throughout the past five fiscal
years sales tax receipts collected by the City of Grand Island have increased by 12.6 percent. By fiscal year 2015-16 taxable receipts reached
$16.4 million, equating to taxable retail sales of approximately $1.1 billion. Grand Island’s pull factor is estimated at 2.02, translating into a retail
sales capture at a rate equivalent to twice that of the statewide average. This pull factor suggests that Grand Island attracts half its customers
and retail sales from outside City boundaries.
Despite a retail sales surplus, the Grand Island MSA is capable of supporting additional retail sales for several retail categories, including
furniture; grocery stores; beer, wine, and liquor stores; health and personal care stores; jewelry and luggage stores; books and music stores;
and food services and drinking places. Again, Grand Island’s strong retail pull factor yields well above average retail sales volumes and the
potential to support additional retail sales.
The Grand Island MSA trade area possesses a retail sales surplus of $210 million, suggesting the inability to support additional new retail space
supply. By 2030, despite a forecast growth in annual retail sales of over $175 million, a continued retail surplus will restrict the ability to feasibly
support additional construction of new commercial space.
The site evaluation determined that the project area is not an appropriate location for future anchored shopping center development. While
the property offers the necessary size, visibility, accessibility, exposure, and trade area demographics, site characteristics that hamper the
property as a viable anchored shopping center site include the absence of a commercial corridor location and the lack of section-line corner
development sites. Viable retail formats associated with the Veterans Athletic Complex, lake and opens space network, and business park
campus may include food and beverage establishments and business services housed in small freestanding retail buildings or incorporated into
multi-tenant office and commercial buildings.
Image Credit: Weber State Athletics
Image Credit: Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill
Image Credit: Heartland Awning & Design
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 21 / 212
15Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Employment-Related Market
Employment-related businesses operating in the Grand Island MSA include 399 professional services businesses, 185 health services
businesses, and 563 industrial-based businesses, accounting for 28.9 percent of all businesses. Collectively, these 1,147 employment-related
businesses support 18,934 jobs, or 38.2 percent of the MSA total. Leading professional businesses in the Grand Island MSA include real
estate, insurance, and banks and lending institutions. Industrial-based businesses include transportation, wholesale trade, manufacturing,
communications, and utilities.
When compared to the State of Kansas, the Grand Island MSA supports an above average concentration of banking, manufacturing, and
transportation businesses. The higher dependence on manufacturing and transportation stems from Grand Island’s central location and
convenient access to highways, rail, and air service. Those business sectors where Grand Island supports a below average percentage of
businesses include insurance, real estate, and healthcare.
Six industrial parks are currently being actively marketed in the Grand Island area to prospective businesses. Approximately 200 acres remains
available for future development within the two actively developing industrial parks with the four undeveloped parcels of industrial land
collectively possessing approximately 1,500 acres of raw land. From 2017 through 2030 the Grand Island MSA is projected to support the
demand for approximately 68,000 to 140,000 square feet of professional office space; 167,400 to 186,000 square feet of medical office space;
and 985,000 to 1.18 million square feet of industrial space.
Future employment-related redevelopment opportunities for the project area include a master planned business park designed to support a
mix of professional office, medical office, technology, commercial, and recreational uses. Such development would distinguish itself from active
industrial parks in Grand Island by providing a more upscale urban environment capable of attracting higher value-added businesses. Benefits
of the property for such employment-related development include sufficient land area to accommodate master planning, adequate access and
infrastructure, and the ability of on-site land uses to enhance the attractiveness of the property to businesses.
Residential Housing Market
The Grand Island MSA housing stock totals 36,023 dwelling units operating at an overall occupancy rate of 92.1 percent. Of the total housing
stock, owner-occupied units account for 61.2 percent with renter-occupied at 30.9 percent. The Grand Island MSA’s housing stock is relatively
old with nearly two-thirds of the existing inventory built prior to 1960. The oldest housing built prior to 1940 accounts for 20 percent of the MSA’s
total housing stock, or 6,340 dwelling units. Newer housing built since 2010 represents just 4.0 percent of the MSA’s total inventory.
The Grand Island MSA supports a strong demand for both owner-occupied and rental affordable housing. Nearly 45 percent of owner-occupied
units possess a monthly cost of just $300 to $799 with just 6.3 percent having a monthly cost of $2,000 or more. The average monthly cost for
owner-occupied housing in the Grand Island MSA is just $788. Rental housing in the Grand Island MSA supports even a higher percentage of
affordable housing. Over two-thirds of all rental housing has monthly housing costs of under $800, with a median cost of just $682.
From 2017 through 2030 the Grand Island MSA population is forecast to increase by 9,303 residents, creating demand for 3,620 new units.
Given household income levels and existing housing stock, the housing demand is estimated to be 65 percent owner-occupied and 35 percent
renter-occupied. The project area possesses the location and site characteristics to facilitate construction of single family subdivisions and/or
apartment communities.
Image Credit: Grange Castle Business Park
Image Credit: Grange Castle Business Park
Image Credit: Pham Structural Engineering
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 22 / 212
16
Business Development Factors
Interviews were conducted with several
local economic development, government,
and real estate professionals to gain an
understanding of the assets and opportunities
and constraints and limitations in fostering
business development in Grand Island. The
table to the right summarizes the content of
those interviews.
Business Development Factors
Grand Island is the largest urban area in central / west Nebraska
Grand Island supports a strong existing industrial base
Close proximity to several major metropolitan areas / markets
Availability of economic incentives to businesses
Availability of Tax Increment Financing to assist development projects
Sufficient utility capacity and competitive costs
Productive workforce and low wages
Affordable cost of living
Convenient availability of healthcare services
Convenient access to highways, rail, and airport
Good school system
Strong retail market supporting national and regional retailers
Large inventory of available industrial land
Low housing costs for both owner-occupied and rental housing
50+ mile radius trade area for employment, business, and shopping
Presence of Career Pathways Institute that educates high school
students in trades
High real property taxes
Assets and Opportunities Constraints and Limitations
Less educated population with a below average percentage of
educated professional
Low wages creates high demand for affordable housing and social
services
40 percent of high school students reside in households where
English is a second language
Blue collar perception
Lack of a four-year university
A low unemployment rate places a constraint on the available
workforce
Old housing stock with a limited inventory of quality for-sale housing
priced from $150,000 to $250,000
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 23 / 212
17Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Recommended Land Use Mix
The project area’s large inventory of land,
location at the edge of urban growth, utility
infrastructure in place, and existing buildings
and recreational facilities create a unique
opportunity to promote comprehensive
planning and mixed-use development. The
priority of the master plan should be to foster
economic development through attracting more
value-added enterprises and jobs.
The project area offers the locational and site
characteristics to accommodate mixed-use
development. Based on the findings of the
Market Feasibility Study, prospective land
uses include an athletic complex, business
park campus, educational campus, limited
retail, and recreation/open space.
A goal of the master plan should be to create a
major sports and recreation complex capable
of catering to local and regional soccer,
baseball and softball teams, and leagues and
tournaments, serving as an economic engine.
The expansion of the athletic and support
facilities will enable the facility to support
an expanded geographic trade area and
promote economic development. As part of
the expansion plans, the existing lake should
be enlarged and a trail network incorporated.
These improvements will both enhance Grand
Island’s quality of life and create a unique
setting for establishing employment-related
uses on the property.
An opportunity exists to create a unique
business park campus environment that
elevates what currently exists in the market.
The most suitable location for a business park
campus is at the northwest quadrant of the
project area, providing sufficient parcel size,
adequate visibility, and convenient highway
access. Expansion of the existing lake and trail
network into the business park campus site
will create a unique setting for employment-
based development currently not available
in the Grand Island MSA. Prospective tenants
include professional office, medical office, light
industrial, and limited retail businesses.
A possible goal of the master plan is to create
an opportunity to link on-site educational
training with employers and jobs. The benefits
would include improving the workforce,
retaining residents, and attracting new
businesses. Attracting a four-year university
campus onto the property may not be viable,
but a small annex campus specializing on
trades and next generation professions may
be. The Career Pathways Institute trains
high school students in a variety of trades
and is an excellent example of the type of
educational facility that could be expanded on
at the property. An appropriate location for an
educational campus would be along the north
side of Capital Avenue immediately east of the
Veterans Cemetery. Adaptive reuse of some of
the existing buildings should also be evaluated.
The Market Feasibility Study determined
that the project area is not an appropriate
location for future anchored shopping center
development. Viable retail formats associated
with the Veterans Athletic Complex, lake
and open space network, and business park
campus may include food and beverage
establishments and business services
housed in small freestanding retail buildings
or incorporated into multi-tenant office and
commercial buildings.
The Community Housing Study with Strategies
for Affordable Housing (2019) identified
the project area as a potential housing
development site. While the project area
offers all the necessary locational and
site characteristics to support residential
development, this land use does not present
the project area’s highest-and-best use. As an
option, as well as to allow for a flexible master
plan, development parcels could be designed
within the business park component that could
be suitable for detached or attached housing
should the long-term market demand dictate
such uses.
ATHLETIC COMPLEX
BUSINESS PARK CAMPUS
INNOVATION CAMPUS
LIMITED RETAIL
RECREATION/OPEN SPACE
Image Credit: Olsson Associates
Image Credit: Great South Road
Image Credit: Winona State University
Image Credit: Google Earth Pro
Image Credit: City of Weston, FL
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 24 / 212
18
Projected Absorption
A long-term development time horizon for
the project area is anticipated given the large
inventory of land. By providing a unique mixed-
use setting the property could garner above
average market shares of office, medical, and
light industrial space absorption. Through
2030, the project area is forecast to absorb an
estimated 122,000 to 195,000 square feet of
commercial and light industrial space.
Near-term redevelopment opportunities
include adaptive re-use of selective
buildings on the Veterans Home campus,
continued expansion of the Veterans
Athletic Complex, and construction of an
expanded lake system, open space, and
trail network.
Forecast Commercial Space Absorption in Square Feet (2017 - 2030)
Professional Office
Medical Office
Light Industrial
Retail
TOTALS
Moderate Scenario Optimistic Scenario
13,600
33,500
70,000
5,000
122,100
35,000
46,500
103,250
10,000
194,750
Site Analysis Findings
The project area’s existing conditions were
examined utilizing data provided by the
City of Grand Island and Natural Resources
Conservation Service. Included in this review
were land use, zoning, floodplain, soil, utility,
ownership, and topography data. The following
sections summarize the findings of this
examination.
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19Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Existing Land Use
The character of the project area is primarily
rural and agricultural, with approximately
305 acres of agricultural fields currently in
production and 95 acres of open space. Parks
and recreational uses make up approximately
94 acres, while veterans’ uses, including the
Veterans Cemetery, Veterans Home, United
Veterans Club, and Veterans Park facilities,
cover approximately 64 acres. An approximate
15-acre linear section along the western
boundary contains 14 single-family residences.
Future Land Use (Based on City’s Future Land Use Plan) and Places of Interest
Highway Commercial
General Commercial
Mixed Use Commercial
Low to Medium Residential
Medium Residential to Office
Public
No Proposed Changes
(United Veterans Club and
Veterans Cemetery)
Manufacturing
Mixed Use Manufacturing
Parks and Recreation
Transitional Agriculture
Current Veterans Home
City Limits
Railroad
Project Boundary
Veterans Athletic Complex
Veterans Park
Eagle Scout Park
1
2
3
4
as other open space and recreational activities.
Currently, all uses are conforming, given the
fact that public parks and recreational areas are
permitted uses within both zoning districts.
Future Land Use
Currently, the project area is planned to be
a public use in the future. This can include
institutional and public parks and recreational
uses. A small, approximate eight-acre linear
section along the western boundary of the
project area, south of Old Highway 2, is
Existing Zoning
The project area falls within two zoning
districts. North of Old Highway 2, the property
area is zoned LLR Large Lot Residential, while
south, the property is zoned RO Residential
Office. The intent of the RO zone is to provide
the highest density of residential uses, as well
as office, personal services, and professional
uses. The intent of the LLR zone is to provide
for a transition from rural to urban uses; it
permits residential dwellings at a maximum
density of two dwelling units per acre, as well
planned to be Medium Residential to Office in
the future. In this situation, it is perhaps more
important to understand adjacent properties’
future uses to ensure compatibility with any
land use changes to the project area. The
project area abuts Medium Residential to Office
uses on much of its eastern and southern
boundaries, and Manufacturing and Transitional
Agriculture uses on its northern and western
boundaries. Pockets of Mixed Use Commercial
and General Commercial are located at the
project area’s southwestern corner.
Existing Zoning Districts
Secondary Agricultural
Transitional Agricultural
Large Lot Residential
Suburban Residential
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Heavy Manufacturing
Residential Development
High Density Residential
Residential Office
Light Business
General Business
Commercial Development
City Limits
Railroad
Project Boundary
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 26 / 212
20
Soil Types
Special Flood Hazard Area (Zone A or AE)
City Limits
Railroad
Project Boundary
Floodplain Restrictions
The project area falls almost entirely into
the 100-year floodplain (Zone A or AE). This
constraint is known and understood by the City
of Grand Island, as it is a common development
constraint faced by the City. Discussions prior
to this planning process involved the idea of
transferring fill from the property directly north
of Airport Road to achieve necessary elevations
within the project area, in order to remove
parcels from the floodplain as development
occurs.
matter. These soil properties influence the
development of building sites, including
the design, construction, performance, and
maintenance of structures.
The majority of the soil on site consists of Wood
River Silt Loam (0-1% slopes), also with sizable
portions of Hall Silt Loam, Sandy Substratum (0-
1% slopes), Wood River-Silver Creek Fine Sandy
Loam (0-2% slopes), Wood River-Silver Creek
Silt Loam (0-1% slopes), and Ortello Fine Sandy
Loam, Silty Substratum (0-3% slopes).
There are two main water bodies within the
project area: Eagle Scout Lake (northeastern
corner of the site) and a small fishing lake
north of the Veterans Home campus, in the
southeastern quadrant of the project area.
Soil Types
According to the NRCS Web Soil Survey, there
are nine distinct soil types within the project
area. Soil types are differentiated by physical,
chemical, and biological characteristics such
as texture, structure, density, PH, and organic
According to the NRCS, the Wood River Silt
Loam is somewhat limited for construction of
structures with basements and very limited for
construction of small commercial buildings.
These limitations are due to a high shrink-swell
factor. This soil type is also very limited for the
construction of local roads and streets due to
its large shrink-swell factor and low strength.
Before any construction occurs within the
project area, it is recommended that a detailed
soil report is prepared and that soil preparation/
amendment recommendations are followed.
Floodplain
Wood River Silt Loam
Wood River-Silver Creek Silt LoamO’Neill & Pivot Loams
Hall, Eroded Hobbs, Occa-sionally Flooded, Silt Loams
Jansen Fine Sandy Loam, Overblown, Leveled
Silver Creek Silt Loam, Saline-Alkaki Complex
Brocksburg Loam
Ortello Fine Sandy Loam, Silty Substratum
Gayville Loam
City Limits
Railroad
Project Boundary
Hall Silt Loam, Sandy Substratum
Valentine Loamy Fine Sand,
Loamy Substratum
Wood River-Silver Creek Fine Sandy Loam
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 27 / 212
21
Topography
1 ft. Topographic Contour
2 ft. Topographic Contour
City Limits
Railroad
Project Boundary
Property Ownership
Alvin and Teresa Avery
Patrick Baker
Golda Bockbrader
City of Grand Island
Hall County
Jeannine Engle
Topography
In general, the project area is relatively flat.
The highest elevation is 1,872 feet above sea
level, occurring at the southwestern corner of
the project area (Veterans Cemetery), at the
intersection of Capital Avenue and Webb Road.
The lowest elevation is 1,852 above sea level,
along Eagle Scout Lake. Given these elevations,
the maximum variation in grade across the
project area is 20 feet.
Property Ownership
The project area is owned by 18 different
parties, including private residential property
owners, institutions, and jurisdictions. The
majority of the project area is owned by the
City of Grand Island. In fact, the City currently
owns over 75 percent of the project area. The
City’s ownership will increase once the State of
Nebraska transfers the Veterans Home property
to the City.
Moving from the east to the west, the project
area gains elevation. The far western edge
of the project area, containing residences, a
tree line, and the Veterans Cemetery, features
the highest elevations (1,864-1,872 feet above
sea level). The Veterans Home property sits at
1,864-1,866 feet above sea level.
The majority of the project area is at 1,862-
1,864 feet above sea level. Given these
elevations, topographical concerns will likely be
limited during construction.
The State of Nebraska Soldiers Home currently
owns the Veterans Cemetery and the property
upon which the Veterans Home campus sits.
The other sizable portion of the project area
(southeastern corner of the project area) is
owned by Hall County. The Veterans Park is
situated on this County land, though it should
be noted that the land directly under the United
Veterans Club’s buildings is owned by the
United Veterans Club.
Therefore, few ownership interests exist within
the greater project area.
Virginia Stevens
Timothy Jakubowski
Amy Norton
Craig and Darlene Schoneberg
State of NE Soldiers Home
Sheri Payne
James and Jacqueline Rudnick
Layton and Sandra Schlotfeld
Allen and Carol Lee Swanson
United Veterans Club
Van Vohland
Kevin and Susan Vollmer
City Limits
Railroad
Project Boundary
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 28 / 212
22
Utilities and Infrastructure
The project area is surrounded by City-owned
water main on all four sides. There is a 20-
inch distribution main along Webb Road on
the west side of the property, a 14-inch main
along Highway 281 on the north side, and an
18-inch main on the south side along Capital
Avenue. The east side of Broadwell Avenue
has water mains ranging in size from six
inches to 12 inches from the existing ball fields
south to Capital Avenue; however, a 12-inch
main loop runs 1,200 feet east of Broadwell,
which could be utilized if necessary. There are
currently several fire hydrants and services
along these water mains. Existing water mains
are accessible to the project area and have
capacity to serve future development.
There are existing 13.8 kV overhead full feeder
distribution lines along the perimeter of the
project area that have the capability to serve
future development within the project area.
Running along the south edge of the project
area is a 48-inch sanitary trunk line that
is approximately 19 feet deep. An 18-inch
sanitary stub out has already been installed
at the southeast corner of the project area at
Broadwell Avenue to serve future development
north of the train tracks. Two 12-inch stubs are
located on the south end of the project area
along Capital Avenue and have the capacity to
serve the project area south of the tracks, as
well as part of the development north of the
tracks. There is existing sanitary sewer along
the east and west sides of the project area
that is currently serving existing residential and
industrial users and should not be considered
for this development.
Moore’s Creek drain way (shown in the image
below), which eventually outlets into Eagle
Scout Lake, runs along the north side of the
project area. This drain way is the current outlet
for much of the storm water from northwest
Grand Island. Along Capital Avenue is an
existing 48-inch trunk sewer line that has
adequate capacity to serve the needs of the
development south of the train tracks. Along
Broadwell Avenue is the Capital Avenue outfall
ditch that can serve future outlet facilities,
but currently operates close to capacity. In
general, overland stormwater flow across the
project area is from the southwest to northeast;
therefore, future stormwater improvements
should be planned accordingly.
Water Distribution System Sanitary Collection System Electrical Utility Service Storm Sewer System
Image Credit: Google Earth Pro
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 29 / 212
23Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
3.0Engagement Process
Fruitful and meaningful community engagement
lies at the heart of every successful planning
effort. The conversation between those
that have a technical and an objective
understanding of the project area and those
with on-the-ground knowledge should be
ongoing throughout the planning process. This
engagement process should be collaborative,
personal, and involve much listening by both
parties. In the end, a solid plan is developed
with the community, and not just for it.
This master plan was developed with a core
group of stakeholders and members of the
Grand Island community. Through a series of
meetings, open interviews, and a charrette,
the planning team was able to work with
the community on the thoughts, ideas, and
comments that became the recommendations
of this master plan. This section summarizes the
engagement process and its outcomes. A full
report of the engagement process and findings
is provided as an appendix.
Quick Facts
Public SurveyWhen: June 23, 2017-July 23, 2017Where: www.GrandIslandVetsPlan.com What: 10-question surveyWho: 184 respondents
CharretteWhen: July 26-28, 2017Where: Grand Island Utilities Department What: 6 Stakeholder Sessions + 4 Closed
Planning SessionsWho: Approximately 35 stakeholders
Public Open HouseWhen: July 27, 2017Where: Bosselman Conference CenterWhat: Review and comment stationsWho: Approximately 110 attendees
Master Plan PresentationWhen: November 1, 2017Where: Grand Island Utilities DepartmentWhat: 1 PresentationWho: Approximately 35 stakeholders
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 30 / 212
24
Public Survey
In order to provide context for the stakeholders
and public, the planning team created a
survey (both online and on paper) that asked
participants about the issues and opportunities
and their values for the project area. In total,
184 surveys were completed. The following text
and graphics illustrate the survey findings:
What is the greatest OPPORTUNITY
to capitalize on?
24.5%
5.2%
26.5%
20.0%
16.8%
9.0%
14.2%
20.7%
3.3%
13.6%
7.7%
18.1%
Summary of Findings
• To survey respondents, the greatest
opportunity within the project area is to
make a space useable and enjoyed by the
entire community. • Following closely behind, increased and
enhanced active recreation opportunities
are preferred. • Increased (affordable) housing options for
veterans and Grand Island residents alike
was the third most noted opportunity. • While noted, increased industrial space
and associated employment opportunities
were mentioned infrequently.
What is the biggest CONSTRAINT to
overcome?
Summary of Findings
• The lack of a clear and unified vision for
the project area, as well as the negativity
surrounding the relocation of the
Veterans Home, is the largest constraint
on the project.• Following closely behind, a lack of
funding was noted as a constraint to
overcome.• It is important to note that perceived City
politics and distrust of elected officials
is a project constraint; 18.2 percent of
the responses received mentioned City
politics.• In general, the surrounding uses and
location of the site are suitable.
No Clear Vision/Negativity
Lack of Funding
City Politics
Old Buildings
“Vets Use Only” Sentiment
Poor Infrastructure
Railroad
Surrounding Uses
Location
28.0%
28.7%
15.4%
4.2%
1.4%
3.5%
18.2%
1.4%
10.5%
What current land uses should be
preserved?
• The current passive recreation
opportunities, including the lake, green
space, etc., are the most valuable to
survey respondents. • Following closely behind, the current
veteran services offered and veteran
memorials should be preserved,
according to survey respondents.• While agriculture was noted as an
important land use to preserve in
12.7 percent of the responses, it was
mentioned infrequently.
Passive Recreation
Veterans Services/Memorial
Cemetery
Active Recreation
Agriculture
43.0%
52.1%
28.9%
36.0%
12.7%
What future land uses do you
envision?
Summary of Findings
• Parks and recreation is the most
envisioned land use within the project
area. • Following parks and recreation,
education (either high school or college-
level) is a highly preferred land use.• Light industrial is the least preferred land
use.• “Other” responses primarily include the
following:
• Agriculture
• Technology
• Veteran only housing and services
1 2 4
11.6%
13.7%
18.3%
6.7%
7.4%
11.5%
11.2%
10.0%9.6%
3
Summary of Findings
Parks and Recreation
Education
Multi-Family Residential
Single Family ResidentialMixture of Uses
Commercial
Office
Light Industrial
Other
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 31 / 212
25Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Rank the following quality of life improvements.
Summary of Findings
• Survey respondents most want more attractions and destinations within the project area; community gathering areas are desired.• Similar to other findings, survey respondents hope for more green space and recreational opportunities.• “Other” responses primarily include the following:
• Formal education opportunities
• Veteran only housing and services development
• Affordable housing options
Keeping an eye toward the future, rank the following project goals.
Summary of Findings
• Survey respondents prioritized the creation of a recreational center within Grand Island, following closely by the creation of a economically vibrant district within the City.• Pure economic development is the least important project goal to survey respondents.• “Other” responses primarily include the following:
• Increase educational opportunities
• Increase veteran services and memorials
• Install clean technologies
WEAKNESSES: What constrains development?
• The largest development constraint is railroad / Highway 2 that divides the project area.• While some of the buildings may be reused and renovated, the overall age of the buildings presents high costs. • It should be noted that 11.1 percent of the responses to this question stated that the site is ready for development and that no constraints are present.
STRENGTHS: Which area features should be maintained or enhanced?
Summary of Findings
• The natural landscape and associated features (green space, lake, etc.) is the most important project area feature to maintain and enhance, by far.• Survey respondents find value in the existing buildings; opportunities for reuse/renovation will likely be supported by survey respondents.• In general, the existing residences within the project area are not critical to maintain and enhance, though their future should be discussed.
5 6 87
Summary of Findings
9.0%24.2%
21.8%
18.5%
18.5%
11.1%
6.0%
18.0%
20.1%
24.3%
6.0%
15.1%
16.1%Railroad/Highway 2
Age of Buildings
No Constraints
Resistance to Change
Location
Lack of Funding
Poor/Lacking Infrastructure
Surrouding Uses
Floodplain
14.5%
27.4%
9.4%
5.1%
1.7%
4.3%
11.1%
2.6%
8.6%
Natural Landscape
Buildings
Veteran Services
Cemetery
Athletic Complex
Veterans Memorial
Residences
24.1%
67.7%
15.0%
9.0%
3.0%
17.3%
14.3%
Attractions/Destinations
Green Space & Recreation
Retail Opportunities
Employment Opportunities
Active Lifestyle Improvements
Other
Create a recreational center
Create an economically vibrant district
Overall appearance
Residential development opportunities
Economic development opportunities
Other
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 32 / 212
26
Charrette + Public Open House
Before a master plan’s vision can be crafted,
it is important to meet with stakeholders and
members of the public to ensure that the
preliminary planning recommendations and
current understanding of the project area are
in line with their knowledge and desires. The
charrette provided this opportunity.
A charrette advances the master planning
process, narrowing in on preferred concepts
as determined by the stakeholders, City staff
members, and the public. Over this three-day
period the planning team met multiple times
with stakeholders, once with city staff members
and infrastructure partners, and once with the
public to gather insight on their overall vision
for the project area, programming preferences,
and critical aspects to the master plan.
For clarity’s sake, discussions were divided into
five topics:• Land Use, Demographics, and Market• Historic Character and Preservation• Development and Redevelopment• Aesthetics and Character• Transportation and Infrastructure
What’s the purpose of a charrette?
1 Assemble 2 Collaborate 3 Finetune 4 Create
Assemble key decision makers, such
as City staff members, elected officials,
business owners, real estate developers,
veterans, etc.
Collaborate with the decision makers in
information sharing about the project area,
iterative design concepts, and feedback
and revisions.
Finetune the master plan concept through
strategic conversations with stakeholders,
the public, and the City.
Create a community-driven, realistic plan,
grounded in market and economic reality.
In preparation for the charrette, the planning
team prepared site analysis maps, created a
project website and public survey, gathered
preliminary demographic and economic data,
and visited the project area. This information
provided the necessary context for the planning
team to ask the right questions, in order to
unveil the consensus-driven vision for the
project area.
Between each session with the stakeholder
groups, the public, and the City and
infrastructure partners group, the planning
team was able to digest, summarize, and alter
the concepts according to feedback received.
Through the charrette, the planning team—in
partnership with the stakeholders and public—
was able to achieve the following goals:• Clarify key issues and common concerns• Identify positive site features• Explore various master plan concepts
and associated elements• Narrow concepts to final concepts
through prioritization exercises and
consensus building
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27Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Land Use, Demographics, and Market1
When asked about appropriate
uses for the project area,
stakeholders prioritized secondary
educational uses, employment and
recreational opportunities, and a
cemetery expansion. Participants
at the open house responded
similarly, mentioning the need for
employment, educational, and
recreational opportunities, though
the majority of participants stated
that these uses should be primarily
for veterans and their families.
Keeping the larger community’s
needs in mind, stakeholders found
that housing and a hotel / convention
center could be accommodated
within the project area. Open house
participants primarily mentioned
housing for veterans.
Finally, when asked about market
opportunities that the project area’s
redevelopment could capitalize
on, stakeholders prioritized an
educational campus.
As key redevelopment and
development opportunities,
stakeholders prioritized higher
education uses (specifically for
the Veterans Home campus) and
a fieldhouse / aquatic center
(north of Old Highway 2). Open
house participants repeatedly
mentioned housing for veterans,
but also enhancing Veterans Park
as a memorial to veterans. The
development of a multi-use area,
including recreational, office,
housing, and open space uses was
also recorded.
When asked about key hurdles to
the project area’s development and
redevelopment, stakeholders noted
the community’s lack of consensus
and the floodplain development
constraint. Open house participants
noted similar hurdles, including a
lack of funding and a distrust of
public officials.
Stakeholders stated that a pedestrian
bridge to connect the southern half
of the project area to the northern
half of the project area was missing,
and functions as a site insufficiency.
The public mentioned the railroad
traffic as a site insufficiency.
When asked about what existing
transportation and infrastructure
capacities can be capitalized
on, stakeholders noted potential
construction of a Custer Avenue
overpass with pedestrian access,
and the surrounding utility
infrastructure. The public also noted
connections with hike and bike trails
and existing public transit routes.
When discussing historic character
and preservation, stakeholders
focused on enhancement and
protection of the cemetery and
the Veterans Home (as a tribute to
the veterans and to maintain the
character of the project area). Open
house participants similarly want
to see the historic buildings across
the campus and the fishing lake
preserved.
Stakeholders hope to see a northern
extension of the hike and bike trails,
as well as reuse of existing buildings.
The open house participants noted
that the Veterans Athletic Complex
could be enlarged, as well as the
cemetery (for veterans’ use only).
Mixed responses surrounded the
agricultural land; some open house
participants stated that it should be
developed to increase the tax base,
while others thought that it should be
left alone, using the revenue to fund
veterans’ affairs.
Issue Identification and Priorities
The first exercise focused on visioning and the identification of issues and opportunities within the project area. Stakeholders were divided into five groups and responded to various topical questions.
Then, the stakeholders prioritized the topics of discussion and, second, their responses to each question. Members of the public responded to the same questions during the public open house. The
following paragraphs detail the stakeholders’ and public’s priorities, in order of prioritized topics (note: Transportation and Infrastructure and Historic Character and Preservation tied as topics of
importance).
Stakeholders identified multiple
opportunities to enhance the overall
aesthetics and character of the
project area. The development of
an amphitheater and expansion of
the hike and bike trail network were
prioritized as key enhancement
opportunities. Open house
participants primarily mentioned
maintenance and enhancement of
the fishing lake, Veterans Park, and
the landscaping throughout the
project area.
When asked about objectionable
aesthetics and character features
that should be mitigated,
stakeholders prioritized Old Highway
2 / railroad and enhancements to
Moore’s Creek.
Development and Redevelopment2 Transportation and Infrastructure3 Historic Character and Preservation3 Aesthetics and Character4
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28
Concept Exploration
During a closed planning session during day two, the planning team developed 24 initial master plan sketches. Stakeholders provided feedback on the initial sketches, allowing the planning team
to further refine them before the public open house later that evening. The public was asked to review and provide comments on each of the 24 concepts. The public’s response to the concepts is
detailed in the Engagement Process and Findings Appendix.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 35 / 212
29Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
After the stakeholders reviewed all 24 initial
sketches, the planning team led a discussion
about the stakeholders’ preferred features to
be included in the final master plan concept.
The following list and the public feedback
provided the necessary direction for the
planning team to narrow the master plan
concepts.• Interconnected water spaces that
are not choppy and that are attractive
for business development and active
recreation• Waterway views that are shared by
all users (land development parcels,
roadways, and park development)• Separation of parks from education;
keep each in their own respective area
(north and south)• Easy site access north of Highway 2
and its borrowed open space views• Non-residential development that is
incorporated with water• Development with maintenance
requirements and development costs
in mind• Individual tract development that
avoids choppy development styles• Fieldhouse development within the
athletic field complex• Keeping Custer Avenue out of parcel
north of Highway 2 to maintain
southern half of property’s continuity • Pedestrian bridge to tie the north and
south property together• Linked trail systems with homage to
veterans through the use of stations• Open northern half of property for
development
Summarized Stakeholder Findings Concept Narrowing and Prioritization
With the public’s comments in mind,
stakeholders voted for their favorite concepts in
an effort to identify the common, liked features.
Then, the planning team further analyzed
the three concepts that received the highest
number of votes and prepared three narrowed
concepts from which the final master plan
was created. The three graphics that follow
represent these narrowed concepts. The final
set of stakeholder comments regarding each
narrowed concept is provided, as well.
Narrowed Concept #1
Like• Developing both sides of Webb Road• Active waterway• Multiple memorial points instead of a
singular memorial site• Boathouse restaurant• Water layout• Aquatics and fieldhouse• Efficient sports and recreation layout• Recreation focus• Amount of green space
Dislike• Moved homes• Development west of Webb Road• Amount of shoreline to maintain• Size of lake• No pedestrian overpass• Lazy lake concept• Seems to be most expensive option
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30
Narrowed Concept #3Narrowed Concept #2
Like• Variety of options• Cemetery design that honors veterans• Educational campus layout• North / south water flow• Pedestrian bridge• Support commercial• Balance of tax revenue generating
properties and green space
Dislike• Lack of green space• Location of fieldhouse and aquatics
center• Distance between soccer fields and
baseball fields
Like• Appropriate lake size for business park use• Community center, amphitheater, and garden• Use of water and site layout• Income from development opportunities• Business park concept• Pedestrian bridge• Educational campus for four-year liberal arts
college• Cemetery• Balance of development, education, and
green space• Water wrapped around athletic complex• Soccer fields• East / west connection along Broadwell
Avenue
Dislike• Missing housing• The only way to enjoy is with a drive or
long bike ride
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31Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Master Plan Presentation
As the final step in the engagement process,
the planning team presented one final master
plan to the stakeholders, which was narrowed
from the three previously presented master
plans. The planning team walked through the
plan document, explained the master plan
details, and asked the stakeholders what was
missing from the master plan.
Stakeholders’ primary concerns revolved
around the public beach and the lack of a
competitive indoor pool facility. Concerns were
raised that a public beach proposed nearby the
community center may pose potential safety
issues. Rather, stakeholders requested that the
area be utilized strictly as a water access point
for kayak, canoe, and paddleboat users. Note
that water access will also be available at the
proposed boathouse.
To ensure that the project area has a strong
regional draw for a variety of sporting and
recreational events, stakeholders requested
the addition of a natatorium to host competitive
water-based sport events.
Stakeholders had general concerns about
providing enough parking for the multiple uses
within the project area. In addition, discussion
about a possible public education process
about the difference between light industrial
and industrial/heavy industrial uses took place.
Various stakeholders want community members
to understand the difference in uses, making it
clear that heavy manufacturing is not proposed
within the project area.
To end, the planning team led a discussion
about implementation to gain a clear
understanding of the stakeholders take on the
following questions:• Of what is proposed in the master plan,
what is easy to implement?• What stands in the way of
implementation?
Stakeholders stated that the ballfields,
including the existing/planned expansion of
softball fields, the splash pad, and the soccer
fields, would be the easiest to implement, as
construction was already taking place at the
Veterans Athletic Complex. Secondly, the full
expansion of Eagle Scout Lake, despite its
cost, was viewed as an easily-supportable
improvement. Other easily-implementable
items included:• Boathouse and surrounding restaurants• Webb Road and Broadwell Avenue
railroad quiet zone• Pattern book to guide the look, feel, and
branding of the project area• Neighborhood Commercial site at the
intersection of Broadwell Avenue and the
proposed entrance north of the railroad• Fieldhouse
Stakeholders also noted several items that
must be overcome to begin implementation,
including the following:
Presented Master Plan (Review Purposes Only - Not Final)
• Selling the overall master plan to the
entire community and the development
community• Developers’ expectation that sites will be
“shovel ready”• Ensuring enough private development to
then fund more public infrastructure• Pro formas that work• Need for wide-reaching marketing plan• Lack of public dollars• Future use of the Veterans Home
buildings
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 38 / 212
32
4.0Master Plan
Though initially viewed as a site constraint,
Old Highway 2 and the parallel railroad offer a
practical and tangible way to divide the project
area into two different subareas: north and
south.
North Subarea
The overall planning objective for the North
Subarea is to create a connected, multi-use,
multi-user, and active atmosphere, with a
regional draw.
The North Subarea is largely undeveloped,
creating a unique opportunity to define the
City’s edge and implement community desires
for economic development and parks and
recreational enhancements. The existing
recreational uses, including Eagle Scout Lake /
Park and the Veterans Athletic Complex will be
enhanced and capitalized on.
The North and South Subarea will be knit
together physically with a pedestrian bridge,
but also thematically with a “Local Heroes Trail
System” throughout the North Subarea and
multiple references and memorials to veterans
and their service in the South Subarea.
South Subarea
The overall planning objective for the
South Subarea is to honor and memorialize
veterans, while meeting community
educational and programming needs.
The previous sections of this plan were
compiled to explain the project area’s
strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and
constraints. Ultimately, the final master plan
was developed in light of this information.
This section integrates the varying viewpoints
of the public, City staff members, and the
stakeholder group into a comprehensive vision
for the project area. The textual, visual, and
graphical recommendations that follow will
serve as a guide for the future development,
redevelopment, reuse of the project area.
Planning Objectives Overview
At first look, the project area offers a range of
land use, redevelopment, and development
possibilities, given its large size (640 acres).
Furthermore, much of the land is undeveloped.
Therefore, the guiding factor upon which
this plan is based is not existing circulation
patterns or existing architectural structures,
but rather a desire to acknowledge and
honor veterans at a proper scale, while also
balancing the community’s need for quality of
life enhancements and economic development
opportunities.
The plan envisions new and enhanced
veterans’ memorials, new community gathering
spaces, attractive development opportunities,
enhanced natural assets, and increased
interaction with nature through a trail system
and recreational opportunities.
The South Subarea will continue to be defined
by the Veterans Cemetery (in line with the
Veterans Cemetery Master Plan), the United
Veterans Club, and Veterans Park. The existing
Veterans Home campus buildings are important
community and historic assets. As such, their
use can be re-imagined as a way to honor
the history, enliven the space, and provide for
economic development.
Stakeholders and community members
repeatedly mentioned the need for educational
space, whether it be a trade school or a
satellite campus of a four-year university.
The campus-like nature of the Veterans
Home was noted as a clear opportunity for
this sort of educational development, even
permitting future campus expansion to the west
(Innovation Campus land use).
City Limits
SOUTH SUBAREA
NORTH SUBAREA
North Subarea South Subarea
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 39 / 212
Veteran’s Legacy Project
Master Plan
Capital Ave Broadwell AveAirport Rd
Webb RdGrand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 40 / 212
34
Land Use and Zoning
Land use and zoning designations are critical
tools when guiding the density and type of
development within the project area. The
compatibility of designated land uses and the
underlying zoning districts must be regularly
evaluated to ensure that (1) the desired style
of development is possible and that (2) the
community’s needs are met through the current
regulations.
The creation of a Future Land Use Framework
is an essential step in the planning process,
as it provides the general plan for future
development, redevelopment, and reuse
projects, including those that will serve to
increase Grand Island’s tax base, honor the
veterans, and/or create a recreational hub
for community members and the region.
Multiple development and reuse public and
private projects exist, given the vast amount of
undeveloped land and the existing uses, such
as the Veterans Cemetery and Eagle Scout
Lake, which provide character to capitalize on.
Following the Future Land Use Framework is
a description and illustration of the future land
uses, as well as suggested zoning changes.
Ultimate zoning changes will depend on
the eventual site and building design; the
“suggested zoning changes” are based solely
on general zoning district intent in an effort
to pair complementary land uses and zoning
districts.
For additional description and precedent
imagery of the uses highlighted in the Future
Land Use Framework, review the Master Plan
Details.
Future Land Use Framework
Single Family Existing Residential
Neighborhood Commercial
Mixed Use (Office / Dining)
Innovation Campus
Technology / Flex
Business Park
Cemetery (per Veterans Cemetery Master Plan)
Parks and Recreation
Capital Ave Broadwell AveAirport Rd
Webb RdGrand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 41 / 212
35Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Single Family Existing Residential
This land use is defined by its longstanding
single family, large lot residences along the
urban fringe. These types of residences act as a
transition from rural to urban uses. No changes
to the current residences are proposed in
this master plan, as their compatibility can be
maintained through landscape and architectural
screening as the parcels to the east develop.
If this use were to experience disinvestment,
higher density residential for employees within
the project area or expansion of the business
park to the east would be appropriate.
Current Zoning: LLR Large Lot Residential
Suggested Zoning: No change recommended
This land use is defined by smaller-scale
businesses and convenient shopping facilities,
typically serving one neighborhood, and in
this case, the project area. These areas serve
as anchors of commercial and social activity,
providing daily and convenient goods and
services to nearby residents or employees.
Pharmacies, banks, convenience stores, stand-
alone restaurants, and professional offices
are examples of businesses that would be
compatible with the surrounding recreational
and employment centers.
The purpose of this land use is to provide
services and shopping facilities in close
proximity to residences and businesses.
Current Zoning: LLR Large Lot Residential
Suggested Zoning: B-2 General Business
This land use is defined by a mixture of mixed
use buildings of varying scales (dining on
the first floor and office on upper floors) and
standalone offices and dining establishments in
a walkable environment. The buildings should
be architecturally complementary and oriented
toward the water, with clear pedestrian
access to the trail system. The adjacent water
and recreational opportunities will provide
employees with activity options, encouraging
an active lifestyle.
The purpose of this land use is to provide
dining for employees and surrounding residents
and quality, professional office space. This
combination will activate the project area
throughout the day.
Current Zoning: LLR Large Lot Residential
Suggested Zoning: B-2 General Business
Neighborhood Commercial Mixed Use (Office / Dining)
Image Credit: Google Earth Pro
Image Credit: Community Development Strategies
Image Credit: Google Earth Pro
Image Credit: Google Earth Pro
Image Credit: The Pulse
Image Credit: Colorado Group
Innovation Campus
This land use is flexible, but differs from
Technology / Flex. Innovation Campus should
provide smaller office suites (within a larger
building), capable of serving tenants with
minimal space requirements. An educational
campus, with a focus on math, science,
or information technology, would also be
appropriate. The campus should be pedestrian-
oriented and accessible to green space.
The purpose of this land is to provide space for
small-scale businesses, start-ups, co-working,
community programming, or an educational
and/or skills training campus. This land use
will provide entrepreneurs with a right-sized
space to begin their ventures utilizing shared
resources and with minimal costs.
Current Zoning: RO Residential Office
Suggested Zoning: No change recommended
Image Credit: Nebraska Today
Image Credit: Cambridge Innovation Center
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 42 / 212
36
Technology / Flex Business Park Cemetery (Public)Parks and Recreation
This land use is defined by its ability to
accommodate larger and smaller employers,
including light industry and office uses. This
land use can take on a variety of forms, from
single story buildings to three story buildings.
High intensity industrial uses are not suggested
for this category, such as large factories
producing high levels of noise, traffic, and
pollution.
This category is inherently flexible, allowing
for a wide variety of uses, such medical,
research, and technology. It is important that
building design, materials, parking, lighting,
and connectivity to the larger master planned
area are considered with this use to maintain
compatibility with surrounding uses.
Current Zoning: LLR Large Lot Residential
Suggested Zoning: M-1 Light Industrial
This land use is similar to Technology /
Flex in that it can accommodate large and
small employers, but differs in the fact that
the buildings are primarily multi-story (less
than four), rather than primarily single-story.
Large-scale industrial or residential uses are
inappropriate; this land use serves commercial
purposes. Buildings should be architecturally
complementary and oriented toward the water,
with access to the trail system.
The project area’s clear access to main
roadways, highways, and interstates will benefit
this use as a employment center with a regional
business and employee draw. The purpose
of this land use is to provide a high quality,
amenity-rich corporate campus environment.
Current Zoning: LLR Large Lot Residential
Suggested Zoning: B-2 General Business
This land use is defined by its ability to
accommodate veterans’ and the greater
community’s need for a cemetery expansion.
This public use is largely defined by the
previous planning effort: Veterans Cemetery
Master Plan. The details of this land use are
further defined within that document.
The purpose of this land use is to continue
honoring veterans through separate burial
grounds and memorials, while also meeting
the community’s need for a public cemetery
expansion. This use should be buffered from
all other uses (visibly and audibly) to maintain
its sacred character. Enhanced vehicular and
pedestrian connectivity (through pathways and
narrow roadways) is necessary.
Current Zoning: RO Residential Office
Suggested Zoning: No change recommended
This land use is defined by a mixture of green
space, multi-scale parks, passive recreation,
and active recreation. Included in this land
use is the planned expansion of the Veterans
Athletic Complex, a large expansion and
enhancement of Eagle Scout Lake / Park, a
trail system, an amphitheater, a community
center, a natatorium, and a fieldhouse. This is
a multipurpose, predominant use within the
project area.
The purpose of this land use is to provide a
community active and passive recreational
center for Grand Island and the region. This
land use will also provide amenities and views
for surrounding uses, increasing the aesthetic
appeal and property value for those uses.
Current Zoning: LLR Large Lot Residential
Suggested Zoning: No change recommended
Image Credit: ESA, Space in Images
Image Credit: Clark Nexsen
Image Credit: Heliviz
Image Credit: Sonata Crew
Image Credit: New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery
Image Credit: Visit Nebraska
Image Credit: The City of Grand Island, Nebraska
Image Credit: The City of Gilbert, Arizona
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 43 / 212
37Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Proposed Land Uses by Acreage (Excluding Right-of-Way, Water Bodies, and Easements)
Acres Percentage of Total
NOTE: This plan does not recommend any changes to the United Veterans Club property.
*
Proposed Land Use by Percentage of Total Area
Land Use Category
26.6%
*
Parks and Recreation
Cemetery (Public)
Business Park
Mixed Use (Office / Dining)
Veterans Home property
Innovation Campus
Technology / Flex
Neighborhood Commercial
Single Family Existing Residential
United Veterans Club (no proposed changes)
114
72
50
43
43
38
28
20
11
10
429
26.6%
16.8%
11.7%
10.0%
10.0%
8.9%
6.5%
4.7%
2.5%
2.3%
100%
Parks and Recreation
Cemetery (Public)
Business Park
Mixed Use (Office / Dining)
Veterans Home property
Innovation Campus
Technology / Flex
Neighborhood Commercial
Single Family Existing Residential
United Veterans Club
16.8%
11.7%
10.0%
10.0%8.9%
6.5%
4.7%
2.5%
2.3%
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38
Connectivity
Transportation and land use are interconnected,
and therefore, must be planned in accordance
with each other to ensure a connected and
vibrant variety of uses within the project area.
Each mode of transportation, including bikes,
pedestrians, public transit, and vehicles, must
be carefully considered and planned for as
development occurs.
This is especially relevant as the project area
is (partly) envisioned as a regional recreational
destination, which must be accessible and
safe for all users. On the other side, the project
area will become a mixed use commercial and
educational area. Business is often attracted to
areas with a strong pedestrian focus and that
are clearly accessible, as such an environment
is all the more enticing to an employee.
The Connectivity Framework specifically
considers the needs of pedestrians, bicyclists,
and vehicles and recommends multiple
improvements to better design for a walkable,
bike-able, mixed use area. As the public
transportation system further develops in Grand
Island, public transit stops should be integrated
into the project area, as well, where demand
exists.
For a description and precedent imagery
of the items highlighted in the Connectivity
Framework, review the Master Plan Details.
Connectivity Framework
Local Heroes Trail System
Pedestrian Bridge
Roadway
Roundabout
Access Drive
Sidewalk
Pedestrian Overpass
Capital Ave Broadwell AveAirport Rd
Webb RdGrand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 45 / 212
39Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Electrical Utility Service
The project area is large and will likely require
an additional 13.8 kV full capacity distribution
line splitting the project area with 200 amp
branch lines splitting off. Future electrical lines
should be run underground in the proposed
street right-of-ways to serve the development.
Proposed roadways should have street lights
that follow Grand Island’s standard cross
sections.
Utilities and Infrastructure
Utility improvements, while costly, can
dramatically alter the functionality and physical
characteristics of an area. Such improvements,
with the appropriate capacity to serve the
desired development, will be necessary within
the project area through implementation.
The following sections detail these necessary
improvements.
Water Distribution System
The existing water system is sufficient to serve
any development that may occur throughout
the project area. Additional crossings at the
railroad tracks will not be necessary. As the
project area develops, water main loops should
be constructed along the road right-of-way.
Water main sizes should be 10 inches to 12
inches in diameter, and fire hydrant spacing
should be approximately 500 feet.
Sanitary Sewer System
Extending the 18-inch sanitary sewer trunk line
along Broadwell Avenue under the railroad
tracks will need to be the first priority for
extension of the sanitary sewer system. Once
under the railroad, this trunk line should be
routed west through the development within
the street right-of-way. Pipe sizes can be
decreased as the sewer extends from the east
side of the development to the northwest.
Trunk line sizes are estimated to be between
8 inches and 12 inches in diameter. South of
the railroad, the existing 12-inch sanitary sewer
service stubs along Capital Avenue can be
utilized to serve this area.
Storm Sewer System
Existing storm sewer systems surrounding the
project area are operating at or near capacity.
To offset the increased demand for storm sewer
associated with future development, additional
storm water storage needs to be planned.
Expanding Eagle Scout Lake accomplishes
this need for the portion of the development
north of the railroad. This lake expansion will
not only provide some of the needed storm
water storage, but will also serve as additional
recreational facilities within the development.
Additional storm water storage is also planned
south of the railroad near Webb Road. This
detention will help slow the storm water runoff
from the cemetery portion of the development.
The City of Grand Island owns a tract of land
north of Highway 281. This parcel of land is
perfectly located to be developed in to a large
detention cell similar to Eagle Scout Lake that
can help manage stormwater from Moore’s
Creek drain way. Not only will the project
area benefit from additional detention, but
excavations from the proposed cell may also be
used for fill throughout the project area.
It is anticipated that the developed area will
be served by reinforced concrete storm sewer
pipe ranging in size from 15 inches to 36 inches
in diameter. These storm sewer pipes along
with curb and area inlets should be constructed
within the street right-of-way and should outlet
into the proposed storage/detention areas.
An additional storm sewer crossing under the
railroad may be necessary toward the center of
the project area to connect the South Subarea
to the expanded Eagle Scout Lake.
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A
B
B
CDE
FG
H H
I
I
J
K
K
L
L
M
M
M
N
O
P
P
B
B
Q
R
R
RS
T U
V
W
W
X
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Master Plan Details
To provide an additional level of detail each
annotated master plan feature is described
and illustrated through the use of precedent
imagery on the following pages.
Boathouse / Restaurants
New / Expanded Parking
Existing Baseball / Softball Fields
Splash Park (in progress)
Youth Ballfields (in progress)
Expanded Soccer Complex
Fieldhouse
Neighborhood Commercial Land Use
Technology / Flex Land Use
Pedestrian Overpass
Business Park Land Use
Existing Single Family Residential Land Use
Mixed Use (Office / Dining) Land Use
Amphitheater / Entertainment Area
Community Center
Active Open Water Recreation / Lake Expansion
Monument / Central Commons
Innovation Campus Land Use
Veterans Cemetery Expansion
Historic Veterans Home Campus
United Veterans Club
Linear Water Park
Local Heroes Trail System
Water Feature
Site Entry Monument / Drive
Lake Boulevard
Lake Overlook
Natatorium
A
Proposed Improvements/Uses
B
C
D
E
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
F
W
X
Annotated Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Y
Z
AA
Y Z
AA
M
M
Y
Y
K
V
Capital Ave
BB
BB Broadwell AveAirport Rd
Webb RdGrand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 47 / 212
41Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
A boathouse with nearby fine dining restaurants will activate the northeastern corner of the
project area and serve as a welcoming, quality gateway into Grand Island. The boathouse
should be oriented toward the expanded Eagle Scout Lake and integrate multiple public
gathering spaces along the water and trail system. Canoes, paddleboats, and kayaks should
be available for rent by the public at the boathouse. As such, the boathouse site should include
docks for easy public access to the water.
Image Credit: The Knot
A Boathouse / Restaurants
New and/or expanded parking should be strategically located and designed. Parking lots
should not be open seas of asphalt; rather, curbed landscaped islands should be installed at
the ends of each row of brightly painted parking stalls. Curb cuts should be installed in the
islands, to allow for stormwater conveyance and improved water quality through vegetation
filtering. Parking lots should be screened from public view along all roadways through the
use of landscaping, berms, hedge plantings, and shrubs. Clearly marked or parking island
pedestrian pathways should be provided within large parking lots for safety.
Image Credit: The Fair Hope Times
B New / Expanded Parking
The existing baseball / softball fields within the Veterans Athletic Complex should be properly
maintained and updated when necessary in order to remain a regional destination. The fields
are currently being connected with a pedestrian walkway on the west to the new youth ball
fields, in line with the Veterans Sport Complex Master Plan. Site furnishings, including lighting,
should be consistent throughout the entire Veterans Athletic Complex. Long range tournament
complex upgrades include the addition of warning tracks in the playing field area and
enhancing the sidewalk entry from the south parking lot.
Image Credit: The City of Grand Island, Nebraska
C Existing Baseball / Softball Fields
A splash park, currently under construction, will be located centrally within the Veterans
Athletic Complex. Splash parks are recreational areas designed for interactive water play and
do not have open basins of standing water. The splash park will be integrated with a variety of
colorful in-ground and aboveground features, including sprays, squirts, mists, dumps, shoots,
and water “sheets.” The splash park will provide a family friendly activity, specifically for
younger children during sporting events.
Image Credit: JTV
D Splash Park (in progress)
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Six new youth softball / baseball fields are currently under construction as part of the Veterans
Athletic Complex phase two expansion effort. These ball fields should be properly maintained
in order for the Complex to remain and grow as a regional destination. The fields should be
connected into the proposed trail system, to ensure all destinations are connected within the
project area. The new fields should be developed in line with the Veterans Sport Complex
Master Plan, with a keen focus on landscaping enhancements and shade structures. Site
furnishings, including lighting, should be consistent throughout the entire Complex.
Image Credit: Sports Planning Guide
E Youth Ballfields (in progress)
Six new soccer fields and four new futsal fields will be constructed directly south of the
existing baseball / softball fields. The new soccer complex should be developed in line with the
Veterans Athletic Complex Master Plan, and allow adequate space for regional tournaments.
The proposed trail system should wrap around the soccer fields, allowing for pedestrian access
from all sides. This expanded design would be a regional tournament style upgrade to the
existing soccer complex already in use in this location.
Image Credit: Visit KC
F Expanded Soccer Complex
A new community fieldhouse with flexible multipurpose sports courts should be constructed
within the Veterans Athletic Complex to provide space for indoor recreational activities, such
as basketball, volleyball, soccer, or rock climbing, that can take place throughout the year.
The fieldhouse should be large enough to host regional-level sports tournaments to enhance
the Veterans Athletic Complex as a destination. The fieldhouse should be well integrated
into the site, through convenient vehicular and pedestrian access, and the building should
architecturally complement the community center.
Image Credit: Archinect
G Fieldhouse
Four neighborhood commercial areas are proposed. Examples of appropriate formats include
fast casual dining options, professional office space, or small-scale retailers or service
providers (i.e., pharmacies, banks, convenience stores, etc.) within small commercial centers
or standalone buildings. Buildings should be constructed with quality materials and oriented
toward the roadway and have welcoming and defined entrances, articulated facades and
roofs, highly transparent stores fronts, and landscaping (at the base of buildings and within the
parking lots). Parking should be located to the side or rear of the building(s) when possible.
Image Credit: Ziegler Cooper Architects
H Neighborhood Commercial Land Use
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43Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Image Credit: St. John Properties
I Technology / Flex Land Use
A pedestrian overpass connecting the North and South Subarea should be constructed to
link the innovation campus to the larger commercial uses in the North Subarea. The overpass
will mitigate connection concerns caused by Old Highway 2 and the railroad. The pedestrian
overpass should be ADA accessible and visually appealing. The overpass design should
encompass the desired quality and character of the project area. The overpass will practically
and safely link the neighborhoods south of Capital Avenue to the proposed active recreation
community center by way of the proposed trail system.
Image Credit: Google Earth Pro
J Pedestrian Overpass
A high quality, amenity-rich corporate business park should be located within the western
section of the North Subarea to take advantage of the access to main roadways and the
highway and interstate system. This land use is similar to Technology / Flex in that it can
accommodate large and small employers, but differs in the fact that the buildings should be
primarily multi-story (less than four). Large-scale industrial or residential uses are inappropriate;
this land use should serve commercial (mainly office) purposes. Buildings should be
architecturally complementary and oriented toward the water, with access to the trail system.
Image Credit: Oxford Business Park
K Business Park Land Use
No changes to the current residences are proposed in this master plan. Though, to maintain
compatibility, the residences should be buffered through landscape and architectural screening
as the business park parcels to the east develop. The homes should be maintained property,
as they act as a transition from rural to urban uses and as an entrance to Grand Island. If
the existing residences were to experience disinvestment, development of higher density
residential for employees within the project area or an expansion of the business park to the
east would be appropriate in this area.
Image Credit: Google Earth Pro
L Existing Single Family Residential Land Use
Technology / flex land uses should be located along the southern border of the North Subarea.
Appropriate building sizes and formats include one to three story buildings, oriented as a
small-scale campus or business park, utilizing shared parking and access drives. With this
set-up, this land use can accommodate large or small employers. A wide variety of uses are
permitted, including medical, research, or technology. High intensity industrial uses are not
suggested due to the use’s proximity to residential and recreational uses. Building and site
design (materials, parking, lighting, and connectivity to surrounding uses) must be considered.
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44
Mixed (office / dining) uses should be located in the central area of the North Subarea, oriented
toward and around the lake. This use should take advantage of the proximity to the lake by
providing multiple pedestrian water access points, multiple outdoor public gathering areas
with views of the water, and highly transparent buildings. The mixed use buildings of varying
scales (dining on the first floor and office on upper floors), walkable environment, and adjacent
recreational opportunities will heighten quality of life, activate the project area day and night,
and provide high quality professional office space and dining variety to Grand Island.
Image Credit: Gresham Smith
M Mixed Use (Office / Dining) Land Use
A new amphitheater should be terraced into the hillside from the roadway to Eagle Scout
Lake. The terraces should have built-in bench style seating, accessible paths and stairways,
and a raised platform. The amphitheater should be oriented toward Eagle Scout Lake,
providing a natural, appealing backdrop for events. The amphitheater should be surrounded
by environmentally-sensitive landscaping to provide greenery and color throughout the year
and be near to the mixed use (office / dining) area that could include restaurants with patios
overlooking the lake, small-scale retailers, and hotel accommodations (if demand arises).
Image Credit: BDC Network
N Amphitheater / Entertainment Area
A community center should be constructed in the central area of the North Subarea. The
community center building and site should be architecturally appealing through facade and
roof articulation, high transparency, proper lighting, and environmentally-sensitive landscaping.
The community center should provide a variety of uses, such as exercise facilities, community
multi-use rooms, office and programming space, restrooms, a community kitchen, and an
outdoor event space. The community center should be “home base” for the larger recreational
area, with staff providing information on recreational opportunities, rentals, and events.
Image Credit: Social Work Degree Center
O Community Center
Image Credit: Old Town Canoe
P Active Open Water Recreation / Lake Expansion
Eagle Scout Lake should be expanded to two large open water areas connected by a narrower
waterway and two smaller open water areas. Pedestrian bridges should be constructed over
the narrow waterways to connect the trail system. Various water access points should be
provided to allow users to load their kayaks, canoes, paddleboats, and more into the water.
Primary access points should be located at the community center and boathouse. Narrow
streams of water should flow from Eagle Scout Lake to the linear water park in the South
Subarea and to Moore’s Creek on the northern boundary of the project area.
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45Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
A monument honoring veterans and their service should be constructed in the center of the
innovation campus, within the middle of a “central commons” to ensure visibility from all
angles. As such, the monument should be visually appealing from all sides, properly lit (lighting
equipment hidden from public view), and structurally sound. Pedestrian walkways should lead
to the monument. The monument should be surrounded by various plantings that provide
greenery and color throughout the year. Site furnishings, including benches and trash and
recycling receptacles should be provided to allow users time to relax and reflect.
Image Credit: City of Green, Ohio
Q Monument / Central Commons
An innovation campus should be located in the South Subarea, west of the historic Veterans
Home campus. The innovation campus can fill multiple community needs. Therefore, it should
provide smaller office suites (within a larger building), for start-ups, co-working, or community
programming and education. An educational campus, with a focus on math, science, or
information technology, would also be appropriate, and could be an expansion area for the
potential educational campus to the east. This campus should be walkable and tie into the
North Subarea by way of the pedestrian bridge.
Image Credit: Evolo
R Innovation Campus Land Use
This master plan fully incorporates the Veterans Cemetery Master Plan. This cemetery
should serve the needs of veterans, as well as community members. The Veterans Cemetery
Master Plan acknowledges the growing need for community cemetery space, but ensures a
buffer from the surrounding residential and campus uses through the use of dense tree lines
and clear cemetery entry points. The proposed lake within the Veterans Cemetery should be
connected to the proposed linear water park and as part of the overall site stormwater system.
Image Credit: Veterans Cemetery Master Plan
S Veterans Cemetery Expansion
The historic Veterans Home campus buildings and general layout should be preserved
and reused as a (1) community education and programming center or (2) a postsecondary
educational campus. A community education and programming center could provide
specialized skills/trade training for veterans and interested community members. A small annex
campus of a larger university specializing in next generation professions would be a suitable
use as well. The Career Pathways Institute trains students in a variety of trades and is an
example of the type of educational facility that could be expanded on the historic campus.
T Historic Veterans Home Campus
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No changes are proposed to the United Veterans Club building or site. This building
functions as a community gathering space and should be properly maintained and buffered
from incompatible uses. If will exists in the future, various building and site improvements could
enhance the visual appeal and serve to modernize the building and site. These enhancements
could include parking lot islands, landscaping along the right-of-way, base landscaping along
the building, and an updated wall and monument sign, though such enhancements are not part
of this master plan.
Image Credit: Google Earth Pro
U United Veterans Club
A linear water park should be created along the northern boundary of the South Subarea, and
accessible from the expanded cemetery. The linear park should include a trail parallel to the
small stream and be shaded by dense tree cover to allow for pleasant recreation and to block
road noise from the adjacent Old Highway 2 and railroad. Benches and trash and recycling
receptacles should be placed along the trail. The trail should connect back to the sidewalk
system within the cemetery, as well as to the pedestrian bridge.
Image Credit: Proto Photo
V Linear Water Park
A “Local Heroes Trail System” should be constructed to link points of interest, including the
community center, fieldhouse, amphitheater, boathouse, sports fields, and the innovation
campus (by way of the pedestrian overpass). The trail system should run alongside the
expanded Eagle Scout Lake and feature various scales of monuments (shown as red dots) that
recognize and educate on veterans’ service or Grand Island and/or regional heroes. The trail
should be paved (with an environmentally-friendly and sustainable surface) and 10 feet wide to
permit space for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Image Credit: Discover Spring Texas
W Local Heroes Trail System
Water features should be included in the proposed Eagle Scout Lake expansion with the goal
of water movement (for the health of the lake) and visual appeal. The water features should
vary in scale and design (i.e., different numbers and heights of water columns), but should be
of such a height that is easily visible, specifically from the boathouse / restaurant, amphitheater,
and mixed use (office / dining) buildings. It is important that the water features not be exposed
to high winds. In general, the height and “throw” radius of the jets should not be higher than
the distance between the nozzle and the nearest edge of the lake.
Image Credit: KC Fountains
X Water Feature
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47Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Three major site entry points are proposed in the North Subarea, and one in the South
Subarea. These entries should be accented with large decorative monument signs, constructed
of masonry and surrounded by colorful plantings. The entry drives should be separated by a
landscaped median, complete with trees, attractive groundcover, and shrubs that provide for
color throughout the year.
Y Site Entry Monument / Drive
A “lake boulevard” should be constructed as the new primary roadway through the North
Subarea. The boulevard should begin at the west entry monument, head east, and then gently
curve to the north Airport Road entry monument. The roadway should be wide enough to
incorporate a landscaped median along its entire length, include bike lanes and street trees,
and have a speed limit of no greater than 30 miles per hour to ensure the safety of pedestrians
and bicyclists. The roadway should take advantage of adjacent water, providing overlooking
views of the water features. Two roundabouts should be incorporated into this roadway, as well.
Image Credit: Sharper Homes
Z Lake Boulevard
A lake overlook should be incorporated into the Local Heroes Trail System north of the existing
ball fields and integrated with a new expanded parking lot. The overlook should include a
raised deck with safety railing directly off of the trail system. The overlook should be furnished
with picnic tables, benches, small covered pavilions, and/or trash and recycling receptacles
to allow for gatherings, such as a parties. The overlook should tie into the planned veterans’
monument.
Image Credit: Positively Potts Town
AA Lake Overlook
A natatorium should be built to provide space for various indoor swimming activities, including
competitions in different sports (swimming, diving, water polo, etc.) of different levels and
recreational and therapeutic swimming. The natatorium should be designed to meet the needs
of the determined user base, though a competition regulation pool should be constructed to
continue to grow the project area as a regional recreational destination. The natatorium should
feature convenient vehicular and pedestrian access by constructing a new parking lot and the
building should architecturally complement the community center and fieldhouse.
Image Credit: Breslin Architects
BB Natatorium
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48
5.0Implementation
Day-to-Day Use
The Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan should be used on a day-to-day basis, as the official policy guide for land use, development, reuse,
and reinvestment in the project area. The plan should be regularly consulted by elected officials and City staff members to review and evaluate
proposals for improvement and development within the project area. Further, Grand Island’s various service providers, community organizations,
and institutions should utilize the plan to guide facilities, infrastructure, and programming as it is related to the project area.
Cooperation and Collaboration
Complete implementation of the plan will require a high level of trust, cooperation, and focused attention between the private sector,
community members, stakeholders, elected officials, and City staff members—all whom must advance the plan together. Though, the City
should be the leader in promoting this cooperation and collaboration to implement the plan. The City should actively work with and encourage
developers and the business community to undertake improvements set forth in the plan.
Communication and Education
The planning process for the Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan has facilitated a considerable amount of public and stakeholder outreach
through in-person events and a website, keeping community members involved and informed of the plan’s development. Building on these
efforts and to ensure that community members understand the plan’s recommendations and the future vision for the project area, the plan
should be made available online for free. Hard copies of the plan should be available at City Hall and the Grand Island Public Library. If
questions arise, contact information should be available alongside the online and paper versions of the plan. Additionally, major milestones
should be covered in the media.
Equally important is the education of newly elected officials. A full review and explanation of the plan and its current stage of implementation
should be provided to each newly elected official.
Regular Review and Update
The plan is a foundational document, as it contains recommendations that were made at the time of its creation based upon existing conditions,
market analysis, and stakeholder and public input. This planning process set a clear direction for the future of the project area. Though, it
is important to acknowledge that the plan cannot anticipate all of the unforeseen changes that could occur in the City’s finances; the local,
regional, and national economy; construction practices, or even social changes. The plan must be nimble and able to react to these changes;
the plan must be a “living document.” A living document can and should be continually reviewed, edited, and updated to meet the changing
needs of the City. The plan provides overall direction and goals, but its relevance must be verified continually.
Although a proposal to update the plan can be brought forth at any time, the City should regularly undertake a systematic review of the plan
every two to three years. This review should align with the preparation of the annual City budget and the Capital Improvement Plan. That way,
recommendations in the plan can be incorporated as an upcoming commitment for the next fiscal year.
Grand Island has the opportunity to create a
quality, amenity-rich, mixed use center and a
recreational hub that serves as a welcoming
gateway into the community. To take full
advantage of the land conveyance by the State,
Grand Island must personally invest and guide
private investment in the project area through
policies and projects that support the defined
vision for the project area. Implementation
of the Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
will occur incrementally, as various projects
are undertaken individually. The following
implementation plan outlines these policies and
projects that must work in concert to achieve
the set forth vision.
A implementation plan provides
recommendations to help City staff members,
stakeholders, and elected officials make
long- and short-term decisions to complete the
master plan. The implementation plan provides
insights on decision making, funding, marketing
and communications, budget estimates,
phasing, and priority projects. With these
insights, the implementation plan can be used
as daily reference tool to evaluate projects to
be constructed, their costs, their timing, their
importance, and the evaluation of new projects
not contemplated or included in the master
planning process.
The four following overarching elements should
be kept in mind when implementing the plan:
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49Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
• Time Frame: A general time frame is
provided for each implementation task.
Generally, low-cost strategies with simple
implementation steps are planned for the
immediate future.• Immediately - (Start within 1 year)
Low cost, ease of implementation,
directly advances other
strategies, or addresses critical
issues• Short-Term - (1-5 years) Fairly
significant costs, but with
planning can be implemented
within this time frame
Next Steps
Section 5.0 Implementation outlines dictates a
clear strategy for moving the plan forward into
reality. This section includes three general next
steps, which should be started immediately
to achieve visible gains and create a strong
atmosphere capable of development as
opportunities arise. The steps are as follows:
1. Align City Policies and Regulations
2. Prepare Additional Planning, Design, and
Engineering Documents
3. Complete Priority Projects
A time frame, responsible entity, and cost
impact are provided for each implementation
task. These items are explained as follows:
• Responsible Entities: Responsible
entities are assigned to each of the
implementation tasks. The identified
organization, entity, or department is
either currently involved with similar
projects or possesses the capability and/
or authority to implement such strategies.
The City, specifically the Regional
Planning Department and City Council,
will likely be involved in a majority of the
implementation tasks. Outside expertise,
such as consultancies skilled in planning,
engineering, and design will also be
necessary.
• Ease of Implementation: The ease of
implementation is indicated y a grade
scale from “A” to “C.” This category is
a collective indicator of the anticipated
level of effort by City staff members,
property owners, partnering agencies,
cost and budget considerations, and
general stakeholder desire. • A - Tasks that require policy
changes or partnerships
with limited outside funding
requirements and can largely be
done in-house• B - Tasks that require relatively
affordable consulting services,
infrastructure improvements, and/
or multi-agency coordination• C - Tasks that require high
levels of planning, engineering,
or design and infrastructure
expansion with significant
investment
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50
Once the Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
is adopted, the City should conduct a full review
of the City’s current development controls,
including zoning, subdivision regulations, and
other related codes and ordinances. It is critical
that all development controls are consistent
with and complement the Veteran’s Legacy
Project Master Plan. Following the review, the
City should amend affected ordinances and
plans so that they align with the vision and
recommendations of this plan and to ensure the
City’s existing development regulations do not
restrict desired uses and improvements within
the project area. The update process should
include a review of the following documents,
but is not limited to:• Grand Island Comprehensive
Development Plan (2004)• Figure 13B Future Land Use Northwest
Quadrant, located in Grand Island
Comprehensive Development Plan (2004)• Chapter 36 Zoning Regulations, located
in Grand Island City Code• Generalized Zoning Map• Capital Improvement Plan (2017-2022)
Time Frame: Immediately
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department,
Regional Planning Commission, City Council
Ease of Implementation: A
Align City Policies and Regulation
The following summarized administrative and
regulatory actions should be completed by the
City within the proposed time frames with full
assistance of the identified responsible entities.
In general, these changes can be completed
in a short time frame and rely on little funding
allocation.
The Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
should be adopted by the Grand Island City
Council as the City’s official policy guide
for land use, development, and capital
improvements within the project area. It is
essential that the plan be used by City staff
members when reviewing and evaluating all
proposals for improvement within the project
area. This document should be adopted as a
subarea plan.
Time Frame: Immediately
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department,
Regional Planning Commission, City Council
Ease of Implementation: A
Prepare Additional Planning, Design, and Engineering Documents
The following plans, studies, and guidelines
should be developed to further the
recommendations of the plan. Many of the
plan, studies, and guidelines will reference the
Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan, and as
such, should be implemented in concert.
A design standards document should be
prepared for the entire project area to
ensure the site is developed with quality and
connectivity in mind. Design standards should
be enforced through the creation of an overlay
district, adopted as part of the official zoning
code. The standards should detail requirements
for architectural and site design, improvements
within the public right-of-way, signage
(wayfinding and site signage), and connectivity.
Clear and highly illustrative standards will
become increasingly critical as multiple
developers and businesses inhabit the site. The
design standards document should be used
throughout the development review process.
The design standards document should be
completed and adopted prior to the design of
any new buildings, sites, or signs within the
project area, as both the City-led improvements
and private development should meet the same
standards to ensure a unified character.
Time Frame: Short-Term
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department,
Consultant, Public Works Department, Regional Planning
Commission, City Council, Parks and Recreation
Department
Ease of Implementation: B
The project area has the ability to support
a wide mixture of uses and will become
increasingly attractive as the recreational
amenities are added. Therefore, these planned
uses should be encouraged and incentivized to
locate within the project area.
In order to take tactical steps toward attracting
these businesses and necessary investors and
developers, a strategic business recruitment
plan should be developed. This plan will guide
the City or a designated leadership body/
director through promotional efforts.
The plan should detail methods to
strengthen connections with the business
and development community, while also
bolstering the project area’s image and
appeal through the addition of recreational
amenities, necessary infrastructure, and
financial incentives. The plan should highlight
the available land, planned amenities, the
overall master plan concept, community buy-in,
City support, and available work force and
financial incentives in order to attract both local
and out-of-market businesses, investors, and
developers.
The plan’s goal should be to create an
environment that attracts high value,
quality new business, fosters innovation
and entrepreneurship, and encourages job
growth by emphasizing the project area’s and
Grand Island’s strengths, commitment, and
preparedness. The plan should also outline
various recruitment tools, including a website
that could include a mapping system that
details available development sites, featured
properties, navigable site analysis maps, and
incentive areas.
Adopt the Master Plan
Amend Relevant Ordinances and Plans Prepare a Strategic Business Recruitment Plan
Develop Design Standards
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51Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Physical improvements should also be included
in the campaign. These improvements will
likely include uniform wayfinding, modern entry
monuments, and more. These improvements
must be bold, visible, and send a clear message
of investment and vibrancy. Both these physical
improvements and the nonphysical should be
showcased through the use and maintenance
of a project area website, social media
platforms, and print material distributed through
multiple communication lines. As previously
mentioned, these materials must conform to
the defined branding standards.
Finally, new development within the project
area will likely be a hard sell to an uneducated
public. As part of the promotional campaign,
City staff members should create a targeted
public education plan and welcome one-on-one
discussions with community members. When
the community understands the long-term
benefits of added employment and recreational
opportunities and a heightened tax base, they
themselves will become champions of this plan.
Time Frame: Immediately
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department,
Marketing Consultant, Public Works Department,
Regional Planning Commission, City Council, Parks and
Recreation Department
Ease of Implementation: B
It is important that the plan target multiple
industries by developing a comprehensive,
flexible, and creative tool set. Examples of
these tools development review fast-tracking
or business counseling. Regulatory, physical,
financial, and market-based incentives and
resources should be paired to create cohesive,
enticing strategies.
Time Frame: Immediately
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department,
City Administration, Finance Department, Regional
Planning Commission, City Council, Parks and Recreation
Department
Ease of Implementation: B
To supplement this the strategic business
recruitment plan, a promotional campaign
should be undertaken. Strategic marketing
and promotion is critical to the realization of
the plan. As such, the promotional campaign
should: (1) attract both local and regional
visitors; (2) improve business and property
owner confidence in the long-term future of
the project area; and (3) act as a promotional
tool for recruiting new business, investors, and
developers.
As part of the promotional campaign, a
coordinated effort is needed to clearly address
the project area’s image, brand, and marketing
program. As the project area develops, this will
become increasingly important, as outreach
broadens to the region; the message must be
controlled and united. Elements including the
development’s name, logo, correspondence
materials, newsletters, social media, and
website should all be coordinated and
designed as a family of materials utilizing the
same formats, logo, colors, and message.
Utility and infrastructure improvements,
while expensive, will dramatically alter the
project area’s functionality and physical
characteristics. Because the North
Subarea is largely undeveloped, utility and
infrastructure improvements are necessary
to encourage development and investment.
As such, a strategic utilities and infrastructure
improvements plan should be created to
guide the improvements and ensure they are
adequate and appropriate.
The plan should be based first on the
recommendations within the Utilities and
Infrastructure section of Section 4.0 Master
Plan and second, on additional utilities and
infrastructure analysis and design. The plan
should prioritize such capital improvements
within the project area; it should align with the
proposed phasing plan.
The detailed improvements should include
designs and locations of water main loops,
fire hydrants, sanitary sewer trunk lines, street
lights, underground electrical lines, stormwater
detention, and storm sewer pipes. In addition,
the plan should clearly outline roadway and
sidewalk and trail designs to ensure that
the needs of pedestrians, bicyclists, and
automobiles are safely met.
Time Frame: Immediately
Responsible Entities: Utilities Department, Public Works
Department, Fire Department, Regional Planning
Department, Consultant, Emergency Management
Department, Regional Planning Commission, City
Council, Parks and Recreation Department
Ease of Implementation: B
The proposed expansion of Eagle Scout
Lake is a critical piece to the project’s area’s
development and character. To ensure the
complete viability of the lake expansion, the
City should conduct a lake expansion feasibility
study to determine the technical specifications
of the lake’s expansion and the required
consulting services, engineering, construction,
maintenance, and associated financial
resources to make it a reality. The study should
also detail the operations and management
of the lake to gain a better understanding of
the staff time and yearly resource allocations
necessary to maintain the lake’s health.
A cost/benefit analysis should be a part of
the feasibility study, though it is important to
note that while the lake expansion will provide
the necessary fill to remove the developable
parcels out of the regulatory floodplain, the
ultimate purpose of the lake expansion is to
create a recreational hub for the region and
to increase users’ quality of life, which can be
difficult to quantify.
Time Frame: Immediately
Responsible Entities: Public Works Department, Regional
Planning Department, Consultant, Regional Planning
Commission, City Council, Parks and Recreation
Department
Ease of Implementation: B
Prepare a Utilities and Infrastructure Improvements Plan Conduct a Lake Expansion Feasibility Study
Prepare a Promotional Campaign
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52
Complete Priority Projects
The following projects are recommended as
priority projects for two reasons: they are either
manageable and/or highly visible. Through
coordination with various agencies, community
groups, and the private development
community, each project has great potential to
excite community members and spur private
investment.
It is important to note that the following
projects have been designated as a priority
due to their high visibility, the entities involved,
or their ability to excite the community and
build momentum, not because of their cost.
Following the lake expansion, the priority
projects are in no particular order.
The expansion of Eagle Scout Lake is perhaps
the most transformative recommendation of
this master plan. Throughout the engagement
process, the importance of recreational
opportunities was repeatedly mentioned. The
lake expansion and associated trail system
provides active and passive recreational
opportunities not currently conveniently
available to Grand Island residents, such as
kayaking and canoeing.
It is important to note that the lake expansion
will also provide fill to elevate the proposed
development sites up out of the regulatory
floodplain. Similarly, the lake expansion also
will act as the initial stormwater management
for the project area.
As a priority project, the lake should be
expanded in full at one time, as shown in the
phasing plan. As part of this expansion, the
two proposed pedestrian bridges should be
constructed, as well as the part of the Local
Heroes Trail System directly surrounding the
proposed lake expansion. The remainder of the
Local Heroes Trail System should be completed
as funding permits.
Note that with a phased approach to the lake’s
expansion, its impact as an attractive business
recruitment opportunity and recreational
amenity will be limited.
Time Frame: Short-Term
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department,
Utilities Department, Public Works Department, Fire
Department, Consultant, Emergency Management
Department, Parks and Recreation Department, Regional
Planning Commission, City Council
Ease of Implementation: C
The boathouse will activate the northeastern
corner of the project area and play an important
welcoming role to the project area, and Grand
Island as a whole. For this reason, it is critical
that the boathouse’s building, site, and signage
design set the level of expected quality within
the project area, including elements such as
varied and preferred exterior building materials
(i.e., masonry), interesting fenestration
patterns and proportions, high transparency,
complementary site furnishings, landscaped
parking lot medians, defined pedestrian
walkways, and more.
The boathouse should be constructed during
the expansion of Eagle Scout Lake, and
should take advantage of the water views by
incorporating floor to ceiling windows in the
building design when possible. In addition, a
community deck should be constructed along
the backside of the boathouse so that patrons
can sit and enjoy the water views outdoors.
Prepare an Annexation Plan
City Limits
annexation and a legal description of the
proposed annexation land should also be
included in the annexation plan. Furthermore,
the plan should state (1) the estimated cost
impact of providing the City services; (2) the
method of finance and maintenance of the
services; (3) the timetable for the extension of
services; and (4) a scaled map delineating all
boundaries in question and proposed and the
proposed land uses.
The annexation plan should fully reference this
master plan.
Time Frame: Immediately
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department,
Utilities Department, Regional Planning Commission,
City Council
Ease of Implementation: A
Municipalities of the first class are allowed to
annex any contiguous or adjacent lands, lots,
tracts, streets, or highways that are urban or
suburban in character per section 16-117 of the
Nebraska State Statute. The current City limits
are shown in the graphic below; the majority of
the project area falls within the City of Grand
Island already, while most of the western
portion of the North Subarea does not.
The annexation plan should detail the
resolution that states the City’s intent to annex
and plan for the extension of City services
to the land. The time, date, and location of
the public hearing regarding the proposed
1 Lake Expansion 2 Boathouse
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53Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
be converted into 10 volleyball courts, should
be included. The inclusion of a rock climbing
wall, batting cages, an elevated running/
walking track, and the ability to transform the
courts into a turf area for soccer should also be
considered.
Facilities such as restrooms, concessions, and
administration offices should be provided within
the fieldhouse.
To complement the fieldhouse, a natatorium,
shown at 19,000 square feet, should be
constructed directly north of the new
community center to provide space for
indoor swimming. It is recommended to
construct a 25-meter pool with a diving well to
accommodate most levels of swimming meets.
Facilities such as concessions, restrooms,
and locker rooms should be provided within
the natatorium. The natatorium should be
constructed by use of creative financing
partnerships.
Both the fieldhouse and natatorium should
be well integrated into the project area, with
convenient vehicular and pedestrian access
points, and the buildings should architecturally
complement the community center and each
other.
The wide variety of indoor sporting options
provided within the project area will serve to
activate the area all year round and act as a
destination for regional patrons.
Time Frame: Short-Term
Responsible Entities: Building Department, Parks and
Recreation Department, Regional Planning Department,
Utilities Department, Public Works Department, Fire
Department, Consultant, Emergency Management
Department, Finance Department, Regional Planning
Commission, City Council
Ease of Implementation: C
The boathouse should also include a kayak,
canoe, and paddleboat rental area and
water loading docks for recreational users.
The boathouse should function as one of
the primary water entry areas, alongside the
community center.
To complement the boathouse, a community
plaza with associated restaurant pads should
be constructed between the boathouse and
the new parking lot. This plaza should be made
of stamped concrete or pavers and accented
with landscape beds and site furnishings.
The architecture of the restaurants should
complement that of the boathouse.
A key consideration for this project will be the
boathouse’s maintenance and operations plan.
Time Frame: Short-Term
Responsible Entities: Building Department, Parks and
Recreation Department, Regional Planning Department,
Utilities Department, Public Works Department, Fire
Department, Consultant, Emergency Management
Department, Regional Planning Commission, City Council
Ease of Implementation: C
The City should work to identify a private
developer for the proposed fieldhouse in order
to provide indoor, year-round recreational
space for community members and the region.
The availability of indoor, tournament space
will expand the recreational geographic draw
for Grand Island. The fieldhouse should be
privately developed, operated, and maintained.
The multi-purpose fieldhouse, shown at
100,000 square feet, should function as one
part of the expanded Veterans Athletic Complex
and be designed to handle both youth and
adult casual and tournament-level events. At
least eight indoor basketball courts, which can
As a priority, a signage and monumentation
pattern book should be developed in order to
not miss opportunities to unify the project area
through complementary, high quality signage. A
guide should be developed that directs the size
and aesthetic of all signage types.
The preferred materials, dimensions, text font
and size, lighting, base and buffer landscaping
styles should each be detailed textually and
graphically for each signage type. Signage
types will include, but should not be limited
to primary entry points, primary intersection
signage, multiple sizes of monument signs, wall
signs, and wayfinding signage.
The pattern book will not be regulatory in
nature, though it will serve as a marketing tool
for the project area, assuring the development
community that a plan is in place and
development and standards are high. The
pattern book concepts and direction should be
fully integrated into the signage section within
the Design Standards, previously described.
Time Frame: Immediately
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department,
Public Works Department, Consultant, Regional Planning
Commission, City Council
Ease of Implementation: B
The Neighborhood Commercial “H” pad
site should be prioritized and readied for
development due to its manageable size and
location. Given the planned and currently
expanding recreational uses in close proximity,
this pad site should be developed as support
commercial, likely as a fast casual dining option
or a small-scale retailer or service provider
(i.e., pharmacy, bank, convenience store, or
gas station). Uses such as these will begin to
activate the project area, requiring little/first
phases of infrastructure.
The City should construct the necessary
infrastructure to access the pad site and
prepare the site for development by placing fill,
completing rough grading, and ensuring sewer
and water hook-ups are in place.
To market the site, the City should promote
the site via the City website, consider an
incentive package, and develop inroads with
the development community. As an incentive,
a preliminary site plan concept could be
developed.
The buildings should be constructed with
quality materials, be oriented toward the
roadway, and have welcoming and defined
entrances, articulated facades and roofs, highly
transparent stores fronts, and landscaping (at
the base of buildings and within the parking
lots). Parking should be located to the side or
rear of the building(s) when possible.
Time Frame: Short-Term
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department,
Public Works Department, Utilities Department, Finance
Department, Consultant, Regional Planning Commission,
City Council
Ease of Implementation: B
3 Fieldhouse and Natatorium
4 Pattern Book 5 “H” Pad Site Preparation and Marketing
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54
To begin educating the development
community about the master plan and coming
public improvements, the City should develop
a complete marketing package. This package
should align with the promotional campaign
and strategic business recruitment plan,
utilizing the same branding, logo, format, and
message, though its target audience should be
the development community.
Therefore, the marketing package should focus
on the master plan itself, available development
sites, planned infrastructure improvements,
potential available incentives, and the pattern
book. The marketing package should be
developed for the ultimate purpose of recruiting
new business, investors, and developers. In
essence, the marketing package should be an
easily distributable packet that fully describes
the master plan, its intent, time line, and ways
to get involved and invested in the project.
The marketing package should be available
online and in print, and distributed through
multiple communication lines. The marketing
package should be created as part of the
strategic business recruitment plan.
Time Frame: Immediately
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department, City
Administration, Finance Department, Regional Planning
Commission, Consultant, City Council, Parks and
Recreation Department
Ease of Implementation: B
While the business park land use will likely not
begin implementation until Phase 7, it is critical
to begin widening and densifying the tree line
between the future business park land uses
and the existing residences along the eastern
boundary of the project area within the first
year to ensure adequate growth between the
dissimilar uses.
The existing tree line is not seamless; the
agricultural land planned for business park
land uses is visible from several of the existing
residences.
Multiple benefits arise from widening and
densifying the tree line, including tree
protection, preservation, and enhancement, as
well as a strengthened shield to block potential
light or noise. Trees themselves provide a
wide variety of benefits to communities, such
as cleaner air, increased oxygen levels, and
decreased soil erosion.
It is important that the tree line visually and
audibly block the business park development
year-round. As a general rule, tree species
chosen for screening purposes should reach a
mature height of at least 20 feet.
Time Frame: Immediately
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department,
Parks and Recreation Department, Public Works
Department, Utilities Department, Regional Planning
Commission, City Council
Ease of Implementation: A
As a relatively simple method to increase the
project’s area attractiveness to developers,
the City should work with the Federal Railroad
Administration to establish a quiet zone for both
at-grade railroad crossings within the project
area (Broadwell Avenue and Webb Road).
Under the Train Horn Rule, locomotive
engineers must start to sound train horns
at least 15 seconds in advance of all public
grade crossings. While a necessary safety
precaution, the horn can act as noise pollution,
limiting the site’s attractiveness to developers.
Without undertaking a massive infrastructure
investment, such as that associated to the
construction of an elevated crossing to
eliminate this noise pollution, Grand Island
should establish a new quiet zone.
Regulations and instructions related to this
endeavor are located on the Federal Railroad
Administration’s website (https://www.fra.dot.
gov/eLib/Details/L03055). It is important to
note that a new quiet zone must (1) be at least
one-half mile in length along the railroad tracks
and (2) have, at a minimum, flashing lights and
gates in place at each public crossing. These
crossings must also be equipped with constant
warning time devices and power out indicators.
Time Frame: Short-Term
Responsible Entities: Regional Planning Department,
Public Works Department, Utilities Department, Finance
Department, Consultant, Regional Planning Commission,
City Council
Ease of Implementation: A
8 Project Marketing Package6 Quiet Zone Establishment 7 Existing Residential Buffer Project CoordinatorStrategic Hire
As a final note, the City should
consider employing a project
coordinator for the Veteran’s
Legacy Project Master Plan.
The project coordinator’s
primary responsibility would
be to advance the plan’s
recommendations. This person
should have significant economic
development and organizational
leadership experience. The
project coordinator would take
direction from the Regional
Planning Department, City
Council, or City Administration
and present updates, budgets,
and ongoing projects related
to the Veteran’s Legacy Project
Master Plan at City Council
meetings.
Without a project coordinator,
ownership of the plan will be
limited to current City staff
member time and resources.
!
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55Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Master Plan Phasing
The following phasing graphics demonstrate
the order in which the project should be
implemented. The phasing graphics should
be reviewed in line with the probable cost
information that follows this section in order
to understand the financial considerations
associated to each phase.
It is important to note that Eagle Scout Lake
should be fully expanded in the first phase. The
lake expansion project plays a critical role in
the master plan, serving as both an amenity for
surrounding development and as a regionally-
used recreational opportunity. Earthwork from
the lake expansion also creates developable
land, as described in the master plan.
In general, the phasing follows the construction
of the new roadway, starting at the new
proposed entry point to the North Subarea
along Broadwell Avenue. Sites should be
developed along both sides of the new
roadway at it moves to the west, north, and
back to the east.
Phase 1 Phase 2
Phase 3 Phase 4
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56
Phase 5 Phase 6
Phase 8 Phase 9
Phase 7
Phase 10
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 63 / 212
57Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Opinion of Probable Cost
Preliminary opinions of probable cost for the
proposed and primarily public improvements
are provided, broken down by each of the 10
phases.
Phase 1
Description
Existing Baseball Fields
Ballfields
Ballfield Parking
Splash Park
Lake Expansion
Local Heroes Trail System
Water Features
Existing
Under Contract
Under Contract
Under Contract
800,000
5,500
1
Quantity Unit Unit Price Total
Existing
Under Contract
Under Contract
Under Contract
CY
LF
LS
Existing
Under Contract
Under Contract
Under Contract
$8.00
$60.00
$250,000.00
-
-
-
-
$6,400,000.00
$330,000.00
$250,000.00
$6,980,000.00
Phase 2
Boathouse / Restaurants / Plaza and Utilities
Boathouse Parking
Sanitary up to Boathouse
Site Entry / Drive
Public Roadway and Utilities
Lake Overlook
Lake Overlook Parking
1
9,600
5,000
455
285
1
5,000
LS
SY
LF
LF
LF
LS
SY
$20,000,000.00
$70.00
$85.00
$450.00
$400.00
$100,000.00
$70.00
$20,000,000.00
$672,000.00
$425,000.00
$204,750.00
$114,000.00
$100,000.00
$350,000.00
$21,865,750.00
Phase 3
Public Roadway and Utilities 1,700 LF $400.00 $680,000.00
$680,000.00
Only construction costs are provided;
the costs that follow do not include soft
costs, including professional fees, testing,
permits, or furnishings. All costs are in 2017
dollars.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 64 / 212
58
Phase 4
Description
Expanded Soccer
Futsal Fields
Fieldhouse
Fieldhouse Parking
1
1
1
11,500
Quantity Unit Unit Price Total
LS
LS
LS
SY
$6,000,000.00
$250,000.00
$18,000,000.00
$60.00
$6,000,000.00
$250,000.00
$18,000,000.00
$690,000.00
$24,940,000.00
Phase 5
Community Center
Outdoor Swimming Pool
Natatorium
Community Center Parking / Drive
Community Center Utilities
1
1
1
14,000
1,000
LS
LS
LS
SY
LF
$12,000,000.00
$3,000,000.00
$14,000,000.00
$60.00
$100.00
$12,000,000.00
$3,000,000.00
$14,000,000.00
$840,000.00
$100,000.00
$29,840,000.00
Phase 6
Public Roadway and Utilities
Pedestrian Overpass
Linear Water Park
Public Roadway and Utilities
Monument / Central Commons
1,225
1
1,800
2,550
1
LF
LS
LF
LF
LS
$400.00
$4,000,000.00
$150.00
$400.00
$350,000.00
$490,000.00
$4,000,000.00
$270,000.00
$1,020,000.00
$350,000.00
$6,130,000.00
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 65 / 212
59Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Phase 7
Description
Public Roadway and Utilities 1,000
Quantity Unit Unit Price Total
LF $400.00 $400,000.00
$400,000.00
Phase 8
Site Entry / Drive
Site Entry / Roundabout
Public Roadway and Utilities
Secondary Lake Expansion
Water Features
600
1
850
77,000
1
LF
LS
LF
CY
LS
$400.00
$450,000.00
$400.00
$8.00
$80,000.00
$240,000.00
$450,000.00
$340,000.00
$616,000.00
$80,000.00
$1,726,000.00
Phase 9
Site Entry / Drive
Site Entry / Roundabout
Public Roadway and Utilities
Lake Boulevard
450
1
1,100
2,000
LF
LS
LF
LF
$400.00
$450,000.00
$400.00
$300.00
$180,000.00
$450,000.00
$440,000.00
$600,000.00
$1,670,000.00
Phase 10
Public Roadway and Utilities
Amphitheater
400
1
LF
LS
$400.00
$1,000,000.00
$160,000.00
$1,000,000.00
$1,160,000.00
GRAND TOTAL $95,391,750.00
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60
Closing
Implementation is arguably the most important
step in the planning process, though it should
not be a debilitative one. It is critical to take
steps weekly to maintain and build momentum
surrounding the plan. Without action, the plan
will sit on the shelf. Therefore, it is vital to
remain engaged with the stakeholders that
guided the development of this plan. With
continued engagement and frequent action,
regardless of the size, the project area will
become a bustling, recreational hub that Grand
Island will be proud of.
Role of the Private Sector
The role of the private sector in the project
area’s eventual development is critical.
The private sector must be invited into the
development process and fully aware of the
vision for the project area. The plan relies
largely on the private sector to implement many
of the land uses.
Therefore, the significant public investments
that are planned for the project area must be
widely advertised. Public infrastructure and
projects can guide private investment. To this
end, the City should develop communication
inroads to the regional, and even national,
development community and provide
regular updates on planned, in-progress,
and completed projects. Practically, the City
should invite the development community to
any related project meetings and advertise
successes on the website.
Additionally, the City should identify potential
development incentives to incentivize private
development within the project area, such as
tax-increment financing and tax abatement.
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61Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Public Engagement Process
and Findings
Appendix A
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62
rompted by the relocation of the Central Nebraska
Veterans Home, the City of Grand Island, Nebraska has
the opportunity to reimagine what the Central Nebraska
Veterans Home and surrounding 640 acres may become in the
future. As such, the land is now undergoing a master planning
process, guided by input from project stakeholders, City staff, and
residents of Grand Island.
This document details an integral part of the master planning
process: the charrette.
P
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63Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Project Background 4
Charrette Process 6
Day One
Day Two
Day Three
Existing Conditions Findings 8
Public Survey
Preliminary Demographicand Economic Findings
Existing Site Conditions
Charrette Findings 14
Issue Identification and Priorities
Concept Exploration
Concept Narrowing
Contents
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64
In 1887, 640 acres, bounded by Highway 281/Airport Road
to the north, Broadwell Avenue to the east, Capital Avenue
to the south, and Webb Road to the west, were conveyed
to the State of Nebraska in two parcels. Of the 640 acres,
approximately 30 acres have been used to house veterans
and their spouses over the past decades at what was
originally known as the Nebraska Soldiers’ and Sailors’
Home. The rest of the land has historically been used for
agricultural and recreational uses.
Today, agricultural and recreational uses still comprise the
large majority of the acreage. Veterans’ uses continue at
what is referred to now as the Central Nebraska Veterans
Home. This veterans’ campus consists of multiple buildings,
all which have housed veterans and provided support
services. Other related uses occupy the southern half of the
property, including the Veterans Cemetery on the southwest
corner and the United Veterans Club and Veterans Park on
the southeast corner of the site.
Given the age and condition of the current facilities, the
Nebraska Department of Administrative Services and
Department of Health and Human Services (operator of the
Central Nebraska Veterans Home) found that the current
Central Nebraska Veterans Home fails to meet current
building standards, and that its design fundamentally
conflicts with best practices listed in the Department of
Veterans’ Affairs’ Community Living Centers Design Guide
(June 2011). Therefore, the State determined that a new home
should be built to meet the current Community Living Centers
standards.
Project Background
From there, the State appointed a selection committee to
receive proposals from communities to locate the new home.
Following proposal review, the committee recommended
a new location in Kearney to the Governor. The Governor
accepted the recommendation of the committee.
Following the design process, the State sought construction
bids for the new home. The new Central Nebraska Veterans
Home is scheduled to open in the fall of 2018. Once opened,
all veterans currently residing in the Grand Island home will
transition to the Kearney home.
Given the fact that (1) the State currently owns and operates
the Central Nebraska Veterans Home and surrounding 640
acres and (2) the campus holds historical and sentimental
value, specifically to those residing in Grand Island, the State
and the City of Grand Island entered into an agreement. Upon
completion of the new home, the State intends to convey
the Grand Island real estate (including the Veterans Home
Campus, Veterans Cemetery, and parking area leased to the
United Veterans Club) and the agricultural and recreational
lands currently leased to the City.
The conveyance will happen in two phases:• Phase 1 - Agricultural land, Eagle Scout Park, and
Veterans Sport Complex• Phase 2 - Land and building currently holding the
Central Nebraska Veterans Home and Veterans
Cemetery
Given the size, importance, and current uses across all 640
acres, the City of Grand Island desires to develop a master
plan for the revitalization and development of the former
Central Nebraska Veterans Home land. It is important to
note that no changes will be proposed to the Veterans
Cemetery and United Veterans Club properties.
Additionally, two adjacent properties are included in the
study: (1) the Stahla property, which is located directly north
of Highway 281; and (2) Ashley Park. While major changes
will not be proposed to either above mentioned property, the
Stahla property may be used as off-site detention, a source
of borrow material for construction, or as an extension of the
City’s hike/bike trail network. Ashley Park’s recreational uses
offer the potential to tie into the larger redevelopment of the
project land.
To move the project forward, the City of Grand Island
contracted with nationally-recognized multidisciplinary
engineering firm, Olsson Associates, and its design studio,
Ochsner Hare & Hare (planning team). The master plan will
address the potential of the following uses:• Continued use of the Central Nebraska Veterans Home
property• New residential and/or medical uses• Use by other public agencies• Redevelopment into new commercial, industrial,
recreational, and/or residential uses• Uses that commemorate or memorialize the service
and/or history of State veterans (museum, interpretive
center, active use of cemetery)• No new suitable use
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65Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
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66
What’s the purpose of a charrette?
1 Assemble 2 Collaborate 3 Finetune 4 Create
Assemble key decision makers, such
as City staff, elected officials, business
owners, real estate developers, veterans,
etc.
Collaborate with the decision makers in
information sharing about the project
area, iterative design concepts, and
feedback and revisions.
Finetune the master plan concept through
strategic conversations with stakeholders,
the public, and the City.
Create a community-driven, realistic plan,
grounded in market and economic reality.
Charrette Process
Before a master plan’s vision can be crafted, it is important
to meet with stakeholders and members of the public to
ensure that the preliminary planning recommendations and
current understanding of the project area are in line with their
knowledge and desires. As an integral step in the master
planning process, a charrette was held by the planning
team on July 26-28, 2017 at the City of Grand Island Utilities
Department Building and Bosselman Conference Center.
A charrette advances the master planning process, narrowing
in on preferred redevelopment concepts as determined
by the stakeholders, City staff, and the public. Over this
three-day period the planning team met multiple times with
stakeholders, once with city staff and infrastructure partners,
and once with the public to gather insight on their overall
vision for the project area, programming preferences, and
critical aspects to the master plan.
In preparation for the charrette, the planning team prepared
site analysis maps, created a project website and public
survey, gathered preliminary demographic and economic
data, and visited the project area. This information provided
the necessary context for the planning team to ask the right
questions, in order to unveil the consensus-driven vision for
the project area. Between each session with the stakeholder
groups, the public, and the City and infrastructure partners
group, the planning team was able to digest, summarize,
and alter the concepts according to feedback received. The
schedule of events is detailed in the graphic on the following
page.
With the history of the site in mind and public survey results
analyzed, the planning team was able to engage the
stakeholders, public, and the City and achieve the following
goals:• Clarify key issues and common concerns• Identify positive site features• Explore various master plan concepts and associated
elements• Narrow concepts to final concepts through prioritization
exercises and consensus building
Day One
The charrette began with a presentation detailing the project
background, public survey findings, preliminary demographic,
economic, and market findings, the planning team’s efforts to
date, and an overview of the charrette. From there, the group
completed a series of visioning exercises generally focused
on identifying the opportunities and constraints within the
project area. For clarity’s sake, the discussions were divided
into the topics as follows:• Land Use, Demographics, and Market• Historic Character and Preservation• Development and Redevelopment• Aesthetics and Character• Transportation and Infrastructure
The planning team split the stakeholders into five small
groups and asked the groups to cycle through each station,
answering specific questions related to each topic. Their
responses were recorded on large post-it sheets for everyone
to see. This way, each person could visibly see the thought
process; this is a critical element of a charrette. Once the
initial information was gathered, stakeholders completed
a priortization exercise with the use of dot stickers. Each
stakeholder was provided with dot stickers, first, to place on
the topic(s) they found most critical to the project area, and
second, to place on the responses they agreed with most for
each question.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 73 / 212
67Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Another way to assess a group’s opinion on a certain topic is
through the use of word clouds. The stakeholders were asked
to respond to two questions: (1) What are the top three site
constraints to overcome? and (2) What are the top three site
opportunities that should be maintained and/or enhanced?
With the responses, the planning team generated two word
clouds. Word clouds serve as a visualization tool; more
prominence is given to repeated words. They are a useful
communication and consensus-building tool as they identify
similar threads of thought.
The City staff and infrastructure partners review session
focused on the surrounding transportation network, site
circulation, infrastructure needs within the site, and upcoming
and applicable capital improvement projects.
Day Two
To begin day two, the planning team presented the findings
from the previous day’s prioritization exercises. Stakeholders
were asked to confirm the priorities. The primary activity
scheduled for day two was initial concept development. The
planning team had ample closed studio time to create master
plan concepts.
After the morning closed studio session, stakeholders were
asked to review all 24 concepts and provide feedback on
what they liked and did not like. The planning team used
the feedback to further refine the concepts during the
afternoon’s closed design studio.
To finish the day, members of the community were invited
to the Bosselman Conference Center. The open house was
publicized on the City’s website, the project website, and in
the Grand Island Independent. Approximately 110 community
members attended the open house.
The open house was setup in a circular fashion, allowing
attendees to start on one side of the room and work their
way around the room, station to station. The stations were as
follows: • Project Overview• Site Analysis Maps• Survey Findings• Questions by Topic• Sketch Concepts Review
Each member of the public was greeted by a member of the
planning team and asked to sign in and was given a direction
sheet. As the event was informal, the planning team floated
around the room to clarify information, answer questions, and
gather additional input through written comments and one-
on-one or group conversations. Several stakeholders and City
officials were in attendance, as well, in order to help explain
the stations and answer any questions.
Public feedback was plentiful. While topics of interest and
conversation were mixed, the necessity of reserving land for
veterans’ use was a sentiment shared by many attendees.
Day Three
The last day of the charrette began with a review of the
public open house findings with the stakeholders. Given
that information, stakeholders were given six dot stickers
and asked to vote for their favorite concepts and provide
additional comments.
During the closed studio session the planning team assessed
the prioritized concepts and proceeded to create three large-
scale final concepts that integrated the preferred features
from each concept.
The final session of the charrette provided time for the
stakeholders to review each of the three final concepts and
provide final comments and direction.
Schedule of Events
Day One - Wednesday, July 26
9 - 11
1 - 5
2 - 3:30
5 - 6
Kick Off Session, Programming, Visioning (Stakeholders)
Open Design Studio - Brainstorming, Comment Review, Existing Analysis (Earlier participants are free to come and go and discuss other ideas.)
City Staff and Infrastructure Partners Review (Invited Session)
Review the Day – Non-Structured Open Session (Stakeholders)
Day Two - Thursday, July 27
8 - 9
9 - 12
12 - 1
2 - 5
5 - 7:30
Programming, Prioritization, Site Analysis Review (Stakeholders)
Design Studio - Concept Development (Closed)
Initial Concept Review (Stakeholders)
Design Studio - Concept Development (Closed)
Public Open House
Day Three - Friday, July 28
8 - 9
9 - 12
1 - 4
3:30 - 5
Concept Narrowing (Stakeholders)
Design Studio - Final Concept Development (Closed)
Design Studio - Final Concept Development (Closed)
Final Concept Review (Stakeholders)
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 74 / 212
68
Existing Conditions Findings
Public Survey
In order to provide context for the stakeholders and public, the planning team created a survey that asked participants about the issues and opportunities and their values for the project area, to
be completed by July 23. The survey was open for approximately one month. Respondents could take the survey on the project website or pick up paper copies at the library, Olsson Associates’
office, and City Hall. The survey was advertised in the Grand Island Independent, on the project website, and on the City’s website. The response rate was high. In total, 184 surveys were
completed. Of the 184, 164 were completed online and 20 paper surveys were returned. The following text and graphics illustrate the survey findings:
What is the greatest
OPPORTUNITY to capitalize on?
24.5%
5.2%
26.5%
20.0%
16.8%
9.0%
14.2%
20.7%
3.3%
13.6%
7.7%
18.1%
Summary of Findings
• To survey respondents, the greatest
opportunity on the project site is to make
a space useable and enjoyed by the
entire community. • Following closely behind, increased and
enhanced active recreation opportunities
are preferred. • Increased (affordable) housing options
for veterans and Grand Island residents
alike were the third most noted
opportunity. • While noted, increased industrial
space and associated employment
opportunities were mentioned
infrequently.
What is the biggest CONSTRAINT
to overcome?
Summary of Findings
• The lack of a clear and unified vision
for the project area, as well as the
negativity surrounding the relocation
of the Veteran’s Home, is the largest
constraint on the project.• Following closely behind, a lack of
funding was noted as a constraint to
overcome.• It is important to note that perceived
City politics and distrust of elected
officials is a project constraint; 18.2% of
the responses received mentioned City
politics.• In general, the surrounding uses and
location of the site are suitable.
No Clear Vision/Negativity
Lack of Funding
City Politics
Old Buildings
“Vets Use Only” Sentiment
Poor Infrastructure
Railroad
Surrounding Uses
Location
28.0%
28.7%
15.4%
4.2%
1.4%
3.5%
18.2%
1.4%
10.5%
What current land uses should be
preserved?
• The current passive recreation
opportunities, including the lake, green
space, etc., are the most valuable to
survey respondents. • Following closely behind, the current
veteran services offered and veteran
memorials should be preserved,
according to survey respondents.• While agriculture was noted as an
important land use to preserve in 12.7%
of the responses, it was mentioned
infrequently.
Passive Recreation
Veterans Services/Memorial
Cemetery
Active Recreation
Agriculture
43.0%
52.1%
28.9%
36.0%
12.7%
What future land uses do you
envision?
Summary of Findings
• Parks and recreation is the most
envisioned land use within the project
area. • Following parks and recreation,
education (either high school or college-
level) is a highly preferred land use.• Light industrial is the least preferred
land use.• “Other” responses primarily include the
following:
• Agriculture
• Technology
• Veteran only housing and services
1 2 4
11.6%
13.7%
18.3%
6.7%
7.4%
11.5%
11.2%
10.0%9.6%
3
Summary of Findings
Parks and Recreation
Education
Multi-Family Residential
Single Family ResidentialMixture of Uses
Commercial
Office
Light Industrial
Other
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 75 / 212
69Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Rank the following quality of life
improvements.
Summary of Findings
• Survey respondents most want more
attractions and destinations within the
project area; community gathering areas
are desired.• Similar to other findings, survey
respondents hope for more green space
and recreational opportunities.• “Other” responses primarily include the
following:
• Formal education opportunities
• Veteran only housing and services
development
• Affordable housing options
Keeping an eye toward the future,
rank the following project goals.
Summary of Findings
• Survey respondents prioritized the
creation of a recreational center within
Grand Island, following closely by the
creation of a economically vibrant
district within the City.• Pure economic development is the
least important project goal to survey
respondents.• “Other” responses primarily include the
following:
• Increase educational opportunities
• Increase veteran services and
memorials
• Install clean technologies
WEAKNESSES: What constrains
development?
• The largest development constraint is
railroad / Highway 2 that divides the
project area.• While some of the buildings may be
reused and renovated, the overall age
of the buildings presents high costs. • It should be noted that 11.1% of the
responses to this question stated that
the site is ready for development and
that no constraints are present.
STRENGTHS: Which area
features should be maintained or
enhanced?
Summary of Findings
• The natural landscape and associated
features (green space, lake, etc.) is the
most important project area feature to
maintain and enhance, by far.• Survey respondents find value in the
existing buildings; opportunities for
reuse/renovation will likely be supported
by survey respondents.• In general, the existing residences
within the project area are not critical
to maintain and enhance, though their
future should be discussed.
5 6 87
Summary of Findings
9.0%24.2%
21.8%
18.5%
18.5%
11.1%
6.0%
18.0%
20.1%
24.3%
6.0%
15.1%
16.1%Railroad/Highway 2
Age of Buildings
No Constraints
Resistance to Change
Location
Lack of Funding
Poor/Lacking Infrastructure
Surrouding Uses
Floodplain
14.5%
27.4%
9.4%
5.1%
1.7%
4.3%
11.1%
2.6%
8.6%
Natural Landscape
Buildings
Veteran Services
Cemetery
Athletic Complex
Veterans Memorial
Residences
24.1%
67.7%
15.0%
9.0%
3.0%
17.3%
14.3%
Attractions/Destinations
Green Space & Recreation
Retail Opportunities
Employment OpportunitiesActive Lifestyle Improvements
Other
Create a recreational center
Create an economically vibrant district
Overall appearance
Residential development opportunities
Economic development opportunities
Other
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 76 / 212
70
Metropolitan Statistical Area (Hall, Hamilton, Howard, and Merrick Counties)
• From 1990 to 2017 the MSA population
increased by nearly 21%, adding over
15,000 new residents. • Over the next five years the MSA
population is forecast to increase by
3.9% to 90,400 residents.
Preliminary Demographic and Economic Findings
A preliminary analysis of Grand Island’s demographic and economic trends was conducted prior to the charrette to provide further context to stakeholders during visioning and design discussions.
This way, a common starting point was provided for developing policy recommendations. The following demographic and economic overview is a summary of a more detailed market analysis that
will be conducted and integrated into the final plan. At this stage, the following sections assess current trends and market implications.
This preliminary analysis documents trends at the City and metropolitan statistical area level to form a better understanding of Grand Island’s competitive position within the market. The data
for this preliminary analysis was gathered from a variety of sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, Esri Business Analyst, the City of Grand Island, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The
following text and graphics illustrate the preliminary demographic and economic findings:
0
10,000
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
70,000
80,000
90,000
100,000
1980 1990 2000 2010 2017 2022
72,709 71,893
77,708 81,850 86,970 90,400
Grand Island MSA Population Growth Trends
2.7%
15.1%
12.7%
20.7%
16.4%
10.6%
21.9%
0.0%5.0%10.0%15.0%20.0%25.0%
$200,000+
$100,000-$199,999
$75,000-$99,999
$50,000-$74,999
$35,000-$49,999
$25,000-$34,999
<$25,000
Grand Island MSA Households by Income
16.8%
13.4%
12.6%
11.8%
28.2%
6.3%
20.8%
0.0%5.0%10.0%15.0%20.0%25.0%30.0%
65+
55-64
45-54
35-44
20-34
15-19
0-14
Grand Island MSA Population by Age
41,958
42,459
43,277
44,207
43,650
41,888
42,484
43,416 43,413
42,933
41,964 41,881
40,500
41,000
41,500
42,000
42,500
43,000
43,500
44,000
44,500
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Grand Island MSA Employment Growth
• The average household income for the
Grand Island MSA of $66,245 compares
favorably to $52,680 for Nebraska and
$55,775 for the United States. • High-income households with incomes
of $100,000 or more account for 15.8%
of all households and represent potential
demand for luxury housing and retail
goods and services. • Households with incomes of less
than $25,000 account for 21.9% of
all households, suggesting a need for
affordable housing.
• The average age of the Grand Island MSA
population is 38.8 years.• The large adolescent population
generates demand for groceries,
clothing, sports apparel, and electronics.• The large Millennial population provides
demand for rental housing, clothing,
electronics, entertainment, and eating
and drinking establishments.• Adults ages 35 to 54 years are in
their peak spending years particularly
for housing, home furnishings,
home improvements, clothing, and
entertainment.• The baby boomer market provides
opportunities for home downsizing,
restaurants, entertainment, and travel.• The large 65+ population creates a
need for affordable senior housing and
healthcare.
• After peaking in 2008, total employment
in the Grand Island MSA declined during
2009 and 2010 in response to the
national recession. • Job growth rebounded from 2011 to 2013
but failed to match the pre-recession
levels. • Job loss resumed in 2014 and by 2016
total employment was at its lowest level
since 2005.• Stagnant employment levels adversely
impacts commercial and industrial space
absorption.
MSA Population Growth Trends MSA Households by Income MSA Population by Age MSA Employment Growth
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 77 / 212
71Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
• From FY 2011-12 through FY 2015-16
sales tax receipts for the City of Grand
Island increased by 12.6%.• Through the first eight months of FY
2016-17 sales tax receipts were up just
0.49% over the same 8-month timeframe
during the prior fiscal year.
$13,500,000
$14,000,000
$14,500,000
$15,000,000
$15,500,000
$16,000,000
$16,500,000
2011-12 2013-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16
$14,556,015
$14,989,584
$15,413,401
$16,296,011 $16,388,423
City of Grand Island FY Sales Tax Receipts
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
22
28
59
18 15 13 16
9
City of Grand Island New Commercial Construction Permit Volumes; 2009-2016
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
91
103
81
58
85
66
84
113 122
133
114
City of Grand Island Single Family Home Construction Permits Issued; 2006-2016
0
50
100
150
200
250
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
City of Grand Island Multi-Family Residential Units Permitted for Construction; 2006-2016
• From 2009 through 2016 new
commercial construction peaked in 2011
when 59 permits were issued. • Since 2011 new commercial construction
volumes have declined steadily reaching
a low of just nine permits issued in 2016.
• From 2012 through 2015 the City of
Grand Island new housing market was on
the rebound peaking in 2015 when 133
homes were permitted for construction.• During 2016 new single family home
construction declined 14.3 percent to a
total of 114 dwelling units permitted.• During the first half of 2017 a total of 45
single family homes were permitted for
construction, down 23.7 percent from the
first half of 2016.
• From 2012 through 2016 the City of
Grand Island experienced a boom in the
construction of multi-family housing with
a total of 688 dwelling units permitted for
construction.• Through the first half of 2017 new
construction activity remained strong
with 74 multi-family units being issued
building permits.
Grand Island FY Sales Tax Receipts
Grand Island New Commercial Construction
Permit Volumes; 2009 - 2016
Grand Island Single Family Home
Construction Permits Issued; 2006 - 2016
Grand Island Multi-Family Residential Units
Permitted for Construction; 2006 - 2016
Grand Island, Nebraska
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 78 / 212
72
Existing Site Conditions
A preliminary analysis of the project area’s existing conditions, including existing zoning, future land use (based on the City’s future plan use plan), floodplain, topography, parcels, and soil data,
was conducted prior to the charrette to provide further context to the planning team and stakeholders. The full series of existing conditions maps and associated analysis will be included in the
final plan. The maps below provide an abbreviated summary of the data to be provided in the full Existing Conditions chapter of the master plan. Key items of note include:• Existing Zoning Districts The project area is currently zoned for Large Lot Residential and Residential Office; the site is surrounded by a mixture of business, residential, recreational,
agricultural, and manufacturing uses.• Future Land Use and Places of Interest The project area is currently envisioned completely as a public use.• Floodplain Almost the entire project area falls within the Special Flood Hazard Area, which is a major development restriction.
Existing Zoning Districts Future Land Use (Based on City’s Future Land Use Plan) and Places of Interest
Secondary Agricultural
Transitional Agricultural
Large Lot Residential
Suburban Residential
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Heavy Manufacturing
Residential Development
High Density Residential
Residential Office
Light Business
General Business
Commercial Development
City Limits
Railroad
Project Boundary
Highway Commercial
General Commercial
Mixed Use Commercial
Low to Medium Residential
Medium Residential to Office
Public
No Proposed Changes(United Veterans Club and Veterans Cemetery)
Manufacturing
Mixed Use Manufacturing
Parks and Recreation
Transitional Agriculture
Current Veterans Home
City Limits
Railroad
Project Boundary
Veterans Athletic Complex
Veterans Park
Eagle Scout Park
1
2
3
4
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 79 / 212
73Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
A Veterans Cemetery Master Plan (VCMP) was completed in 2016 to address the
nearing capacity of the Grand Island Public Cemetery. This plan does not propose
any changes to the Veterans Cemetery, but largely will integrate the VCMP. As
part of the VCMP, the City agreed to maintain existing the Veterans Cemetery and
provide a buffer from surrounding land uses.
A Veterans Sports Complex Master Plan (VSCMP) was recently completed. The first phase was approved by the City in April 2017. The VSCMP proposes six softball fields, concessions and restrooms, and a splash pad. This plan will largely integrate the VSCMP.
Veterans Cemetery Master Plan
Veterans Sport Complex Master Plan
Floodplain
Special Flood Hazard Area (Zone A or AE)
City Limits
Railroad
Project Boundary
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 80 / 212
74
Issue Identification and Priorities
As previously mentioned, the first exercise on day one of the
charrette was focused on visioning and the identification
of issues and opportunities within the project area. The
planning team asked stakeholders to break out into five
groups and move station to station to respond to various
topical questions. Later in the day, the stakeholders were
instructed to first prioritize the topics of discussion and then
their responses to each question. The following tables detail
the findings, and the results of the prioritization exercises
following the initial exercise.
Land Use, Demographics, and Market
Development and Redevelopment
Transportation and Infrastructure
Historic Character and Preservation
Aesthetics and Character
Charrette Findings
Topics by Priority
1
2
3
3
4
Tie {
Land Use, Demographics, and Market1
What uses are appropriate?
Secondary educational campus (school of math, science, and IT)
Job creation (replacement of Veterans Home jobs with other higher paying jobs
Use farm ground west of fields to increase tax base
Recreation
Cemetery expansion
Residential - “new urbanism” style, mixed use, walkable
Hospitality accommodations (hotel for tournament / restaurants)
Revenue generation
19
19
10
10
10
6
1
0
1
1
2
2
2
3
What uses are needed in Grand Island that could be
accommodated on the site?
Housing
Hotel / convention center
(southeast corner near
sports complex)
Quality of life
Agriculture research
Recreational opportunities
(lazy river for kayaking, link
to Eagle Scout Park)
Higher paying jobs
Specialty university
Research and development
IT
4
3
2
2
1
1
0
0
0
1
2
3
3
What market opportunities exist that the site could
capitalize on?
Educational (tie in with nearby schools)
Need to have tax base created here
Cyber security
Recreation can create tax base through tourism
High end dining
Residential
5
4
2
1
0
0
1
2
3
Development and Redevelopment2
What are the key redevelopment and development
opportunities?
Higher education
Fieldhouse / aquatic center
IT School (such as NE School of Science and Mathematics and Technology)
Housing
Schools / education
Commercial development consistent with area and needs
History of being a Veterans Home
Proximity (schools, residential, etc.)
Job creation (replacement of lost Veterans home jobs)
Accessibility (to the south)
State funds set aside for demolition
Industrial development northwest to Eagle Scout Lake
Western Nebraska Agriculture Campus
19
14
12
12
8
5
3
2
1
0
0
0
0
1
2
3
3
What are the key hurdles to development and
redevelopment?
Community in fighting, getting to consensus, breaking grudges
Groundwater / floodplain
Timing
Railroad / Highway 2
Broadwell expansion (4 lanes?)
History of being a Veterans Home
RDX plume
Infrastructure
Current projects (patchwork)
Limited to Veterans’ uses, theme, and legacy
5
3
3
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
2
3
3
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 81 / 212
75Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Transportation and Infrastructure3
What transportation and infrastructure needs or
insufficiencies exist (to or on the site)?
Pedestrian bridge to ball fields, etc.
Custer Ave. overpass with pedestrian
Railroad impact mitigation (elevated? sound barriers?)
Funding
Highway 2 impact mitigation
Webb Rd. / Highway 2 intersection (lack of stacking before railroad tracks)
North / south roads (in area and surrounding)
Expansion of infrastructure utilities north of railroad
Broadwell Ave. improvement north of railroad
11
7
2
2
1
1
0
0
0
What existing transportation and infrastructure
capacities can be capitalized on?
Custer Ave. overpass with
pedestrian
Surrounding utility
infrastructure
Capital Ave. and Broadwell
Ave. improvements
Expansion of hike/bike trail
9
2
1
0
1
2
Aesthetics and Character4
What are the key opportunities for enhancing overall
aesthetics and creating and capitalizing on
existing character?
Amphitheater
Hike/bike trails
Green space
Additional activities for lake
Park at Eagle Scount Park
GIVH grounds
Tribute wall
Cemetery
United Veterans Club
Recreational opportunities
Flags
Northern area of site
Redevelopment south of Capital Ave.
Webb Rd.
West of lake area
11
8
7
3
2
2
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
3
What are negative or objectionable aesthetics and
character issues that should be mitigated?
Highway 2 / Railroad
Moore’s Creek
enhancements
Agriculture close to
enhanced area
Clean up farm areas
Commercial to south and
east
Boring concrete slabs in
prominent areas
8
2
0
0
0
0
1
2
Historic Character and Preservation3
What should be preserved or protected and enhanced?
Cemetery
Veterans Home / tribute / character
VFW / United Veterans Club
Pond / landscaping
Existing buildings (opportunities available for funding, such as Historic Tax Credits 40%)
Veterans Park
Recreation areas (Eagle Scout Park and ballfield complex)
Memorial spaces (wall, etc.)
Military monuments / equipment
Development prioritized by existing infrastructure (sewer, water, streets)
9
5
4
4
3
1
1
1
0
0
1
2
3
3
What areas can be modified or altered?
Northern extension of hike/
bike trails
Existing building reuse
Drainageways
Corn fields
Highway 2 (relocate)
Overpass to north area /
Eagle Scout ballfields
Railroad
Adjacent areas
Recreational areas (lakes,
sport fields)
7
2
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
3
1
2
3
3
3
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 82 / 212
76
Word Clouds
The final exercise on day one was the creation of word clouds. Words clouds were created for both of the following questions. They largely served as a summary of the day’s discussions.
What are the top 3 site opportunities that should be maintained and/or enhanced?What are the top 3 site constraints to overcome?
Concept Exploration
Day two focused on initial concept development and the public open house. During the morning closed studio time, the planning team developed 24 initial master plan sketches. Stakeholders
provided feedback on the initial sketches over lunch, allowing the planning team to further refine them before the public open house. The public was asked to review each of the 24 concepts, and
respond to the the same issue identification and priority questions that the stakeholders were asked during day one. The public’s responses to those questions are detailed on pages 21-22.
Sketch Concepts Stakeholder and Public Findings
To record day two, each sketch concept is shown with the stakeholders’ and the public’s comments as follows. A summarized list of stakeholder preferences is provided after.
• Recreational facilities fit together• Agriculture - possible development
• Adaptive reuse possibilities
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Farm the land • No manufacturing• No bigger lake or fields• Like the parks
• Football stadium• Sell the land and build hospice care center for veterans• Define support commercial
2
• Agriculture use is use of potential• Is RV park economically viable?
• Already have manufacturing parks• Custer Ave. cut through traffic-
Public Sentiment
• Nice water features• Development ground• Nice blend of uses
• Worth trying to close Webb RR crossing (I like the diverted road)• Good traffic movements
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Veterans Cemetery should be for veterans only; no City cemetery on this site• No commercial or office
• No more ball parks or fields• It makes sense to add a City cemetery space while keeping a separate area for veterans
1
• Business near Veterans Cemetery• Mitigate reliance on Custer St. = more traffic by senior high to south
• Not enough land for cemetery• City cemetery north of Veterans seems like it would increase maintenance costs
-
Public Sentiment
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 83 / 212
77Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
• Like lakefront development• Financially supports green space maintenance• Connected waterways
• Water around business development
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Great idea, like the water• Expand cemetery, no more parks• No City cemetery (x4)
• Like it - “Pleasure Island” and more development• Land belongs to the veterans; let them decide
3
• South water feature is maintenance issue-
Public Sentiment
• Like water features• RV Park• Education campus on south side of Hwy. 2
• Not reliant on Custer overpass
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Love the lake expansion and green space (x2)• Not enough development• No shopping or strip malls
• No City cemetery; define development (x3)• Like educational space (x2)• Expand sports complex; No RV
4
• Education campus• Little corporate/business land for revenue enhancement-
Public Sentiment
• Nice sports areas
Stakeholder Comments
+
• No more sports fields (x6)• Big lake yes! (x2)• No City cemetery (x2)• No mini malls
5
• No education space• Little passive recreation • Lake is surrounded by roads-
Public Sentiment
• Like the star idea (though maybe not so large)
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Memorial park• No expanding sports fields• Expand sports fields• Wrong - what is develop?• No City cemetery
• How about tiny homes for veterans and assisted living?• Put ball field east of the fairgrounds, at the parking lot; leave the Vets ground
6
• Seems maintenance expensive• Star idea is too big • Decades before trees grow-
Public Sentiment
• Less traffic• Maintains theme to honor vets • Unified space for expanded existing campus
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Like the star• This land belongs to the veterans, let them decide• No City cemetery
• This is wrong
7
• No vehicular routes between star prongs• Too much space devoted to star
• Park space is sports only - no passive-
Public Sentiment
• Like revenue/develop opportunities• Nice water space• Reliant on outer thoroughfares
• Water amenity for many uses at once
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Good mix uses, good vision• No (x13)• Great possibilities• I don’t like this expect for Veterans Cemetery expansion• No residential or commercial• Best design for entire
community• Too much residential• Keep the agriculture land in production• I like the variety of uses, just think original buildings should be kept as much as possible
8
• No access from south to corporate park from Hwy. 2• Lose rec space• Don’t like south residential near cemetery
• Think business use need to go north of Hwy. 2 to preserve home property and surrounding area• Loss of park/rec space
-
Public Sentiment
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78
• Not dependant on overpass (Custer over Hwy. 2)• Like the Broadwell-Webb connection and Custer connection to Hwy. 2
• Good water features• Nice use of space and extension to the west
Stakeholder Comments
+
• No / don’t like this (x2)• Interesting concept with south developed for veterans and north for long term community benefit• Has potential
• Yes, love it!• How does this honor vets? (x3)• Like the connection of Webb and Broadwell, and Capital and Old Hwy. 2
9
• Agriculture use is use of potential• Is RV park economically viable?
• Already have manufacturing parks• Custer Ave. cut through traffic-
Public Sentiment
• RV park!• Like lake expansion to the west • Bigger this lake the better!
Stakeholder Comments
+
• No way!• Housing for vets• Too much park / not enough development• No City cemetery (x2)• Like this one!• We don’t need another campus, we need something
fun for vets no matter what their age• Love the water and green space!• Good mixed use concept; use excavated material to buffer rail line• Lake big enough
10
• Need more development space• High maintenance costs • Balance water (borrow) with fill sites-
Public Sentiment
• Nice balance of development and sports• Inviting commercial development
• Nice layout, especially recreation
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Housing for vets (x9)• Vet’s club; vet’s home reuse• Like expanded water and connection to Webb
• No City cemetery
11
• Dependent on Custer overpass • Too much water-
Public Sentiment
• Shape of lake • Grand Island
Stakeholder Comments
+
• The only thing for the veterans is the club and cemetery• A museum honoring all veterans (Civil War to present)• Do not expand ball fields; expand Veterans cemetery
• How does an RV park enhance these grounds?• Needs more business/commercial development• No City cemetery• None of these are for vets!
12
• Pigeon holes education area no room to grow• Too much water
• No business/commercial area-
Public Sentiment
• Like the development areas accessible to the highway
Stakeholder Comments
+
• None of the above• Use the original buildings for vets• Too many sports complexes
• Big sports complex• No City cemetery• Too many recreational sketches
13
• Hancock St. is not a thoroughfare-
Public Sentiment
• Island water• Not reliant upon Custer expansion
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Remember the vets who fought for us (x2)• Vets only (x4)
• Do the right thing for the vets and the right revenue• None of this (x2)• No more development
14
• Too much water• Not enough taxable development
• Don’t like island homes-
Public Sentiment
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79Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
• Star (maybe not in that location)• Not reliant on Custer expansion• Community center - fieldhouse campus (includes library)
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Too many ponds (x2)• Farm ground for income for vets land (x2)• No (x2)• Vets only (x3)• None of these sketches pertain to veterans!
• Star = Vets memorial park• Like the idea of expanding the Vet’s memorial throughout entire development• Love the ponds and green space; not sure about the development
15
• Large amount of recreation and water = less direct revenue producing opportunities• Too much water
• Segregation of water-
Public Sentiment
• Pool aquatics• Not reliant on Custer expansion• Community center
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Vets only (x2)• Too many isolated bodies of water (x3)• Give the property to the vets• Keep the fields in production
• Too much recreation• No way (x3)• I like the recreation for residents and visitors
16
• Want water connected• Too much water• Cannot do that many pits
• 281 frontage mostly lakes• Segregation of water-
Public Sentiment
• Appropriate water feature• Opportunity to develop tracts as need arises• Good connectivity
• Expand lakes
Stakeholder Comments
+
• No (x7)• Yes!• Like the connectivity and mixed uses• Good use for the community• Vets need housing and job skills• This looks like a recreation park - for vets?
• A lot of possibilities• Expand vets cemetery for all veterans. Do not put offices or businesses on this land.• No more parks• Good expanded lake• Have a veterans education so they can use and learn a trait
17
• No Grand Island cemetery expansion• RV park
• RV park next to business/commercial space• No residential-
Public Sentiment
• Expands existing campus for education• Not reliant on Custer expansion• Good water recreation• Corporate/bus. development• Like frontage roads
• Like park extension into lakes• True mixed uses• Distinction between N/S areas• South lake good fit for fill for fields• All development has water view
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Nothing for the vets (x5)• Vets only• Love it!• Good access and rec areas• No City cemetery for this site; use site for all ages of vets
• All parks! No parks!• Increase cemetery for vets, also housing; forget development and water lakes
18
• Would like to see Custer go to Hwy. 2• Too much water
• Do not like Custer access - High School, Central Catholic, and Walnut (too much traffic load)
-
Public Sentiment
• Good water recreation• Corporate business development
• Expanded, uninterupted campus
Stakeholder Comments
+
• No (x2)• No more sports (x2)• Vets only• Make vets cemetery bigger• If this is for high dollar housing that is not needed; maybe duplexes for veterans with a rec center for vets
• Looks functional and viable• Great concept• Campus for vets• Rec park out
19
• Parks are restricted• Overpass could create undesired thru traffic
• Boxy• Above grade rail crossing-
Public Sentiment
• Nice mix of uses• Lake access off 281 is good• Lake expansion to the west as a big body of water
• Good north/south flow• Good west/east use
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Cemetery for vets only• Vets only• No parks• Perfect!• It would seem like this is way too much of an area for a lake
• No way!• I like it too!• No lake expansion or destination park
20
• Thru north/south traffic could create undesired thru traffic • West lake water versus development frontage-
Public Sentiment
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80
• None listed
Stakeholder Comments
+
• No!• No City cemetery (x2)• Vets only (x2)• Good use of expanded ponds and connections
• Keep things for vets south of highway• This land belongs to the vets
21
• Don’t care for broken up water space (not good for water recreation)• State just built new veterans cemetery (no need!)
• Split cemeteries and water = higher maintenance costs-
Public Sentiment
• Like the expanded water• Good trail connection (could be fitness trail with veterans memorial)• Good mixed use• Grand campus
• Not reliant on Custer• Event space support (hospitality)• Like the pedestrian connection over railroad
Stakeholder Comments
+
• This is terrifc• No City cemetery (x5)• Vets only• Perfect!
• Good trail system; utilize trails to expand vets memorial• Good use of Hwy. 281 as entrance to community
22
• Need market study to see if hotel/convention center is viable venture• Limited corporate/business for economic impact
• Too much housing• Tech campus and university campus split... why?-
Public Sentiment
• None listed
Stakeholder Comments
+
• Too many sports fields (x4)• No City cemetery (x2)• No (x2)• No development• No more parks please
• Like the memorial• Let’s build a technology park. Work with UNL on Business Development park.
23
• Want more water than this• Development needs a better view than sports fields
• Segregated development concepts (vets south, everything else north)
-
Public Sentiment
• Campground a good idea with pedestrian bridge • RV? campground
Stakeholder Comments
+
• No campground (x2)• No; vets only (x5)• A campground might be good if needed. We do have a Hall County park for camping.
24
• Need to connect • Does a campground pay for itself? Economically viable?-
Public Sentiment
Summarized Stakeholder Findings
To end the last stakeholder meeting of day two, the planning
team led a discussion about the stakeholders’ preferred
features to be included in the final master plan concept. The
following list and the public feedback provided the necessary
direction for the planning team to narrow the master plan
concepts.
• Interconnected water spaces that are not choppy and
that are attractive for business development and active
recreation• Waterway views that are shared by all users (land
development parcels, roadways, and park development)• Separation of parks from education; keep each in
their own respective area (north and south)• Easy site access north of Highway 2 and its borrowed
open space views• Non-residential development that is incorporated with
water• Development with maintenance requirements and
development costs in mind
• Individual tract development that avoids choppy
development styles• Fieldhouse development within the athletic field
complex• Keeping Custer Avenue out of parcel north of
Highway 2 to maintain southern half of property’s
continuity • Pedestrian bridge to tie the north and south property
together• Linked trail systems with homage to veterans through
the use of stations• Open northern half of property for development
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81Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Additional Public Response
The public was asked to respond to the same topical questions that the stakeholders were asked during day one’s exercises. The complete record of their responses is provided as follows.
• A memorial park
• Community for veterans; dance hall; vote open to the
public; pay reasonable price
• It doesn’t belong to anyone but the veterans!
• Vet’s housing, job retraining and resource center, vet’s
services, employment for vets
• I feel that since we are talking 640 acres of sacred grounds
it should be kept as an assisted living facility
• Aquatic park; high school for math/science and technology
• Housing for low income veterans; $600.00 per month is
too high
• Use for educational for veterans; increase cemetery
• Leave the farm ground alone (it’s income); a fishing pond
for vets and family; large pond for fishing
• All but manufacturing
• Let’s let vets have 2 acres to build on homes
• It should be used to benefit the veterans!!!
• Grand Island Military Academy, mostly rich brat kids
who need discipline, show respect, a high academics,
grooming, and house keeping, parents visit, spend money,
tell friends, brochures about Grand Island, Nebraska; kids
get good resume; reputation spreads around world
• With housing need to see rehab center for returning and
current veterans.
• A memorial park is the only appropriate use
• Since it is set in concrete anyway, build residential sites
- stop expanding to the west; we vets were screwed by
Governor Heineman
• Education to include veterans. Veterans housing and
veterans services.
• Maybe some could be used for low income vets or
homeless vets
• Enlarge sports complex; museum for vets; enlarge
cemetery
• Use buildings for vet housing, tech training; farm the
agriculture land; use the profits to keep funding the
projects
• Annex of City cemetery
• For veteran use only!!
• Only veteran uses. Farm the existing acres. Use the
cemetery for vets. Maintain Park and Club ground.
• Low cost housing for veterans
• This land belongs to the Veterans only; let them decide
not City
• RV park with lake for pull-in and reserved area for veterans
• Higher education with other mixed uses; great opportunity
for a gateway project.
• Farm income can support the veterans ongoing
• Keep farm ground in production; most vets do not play
soccer or baseball; use for home development
• Housing for vets, some type of shopping for them and
maybe vocational training for returning vets
• High end business/commercial park; lake/water sports
• I think a special school for advanced high school students specializing in chemistry, math
• Large football stadium with adequate parking
• This land is to be used for another national cemetery for veterans!
• Renovate the buildings, dorms, med care, bowling alley
• Veterans input!
• Open minded thinking
• Small assisted living housing for vet for handicapped
• Military museum, vet’s housing, large memorial
• Technology park with good paying jobs
• Low cost housing for veterans
• If Custer Ave. went north and was connected to Webb
Rd. north of the cemetery, the 1/2 of the frontage along Capital Ave. could be developed as a running course in partnership with GIPS.
• Affordable housing for veterans, educational training for vets
• Center to address veterans physical needs as well as emotional needs
• Handicapped accessible park areas
• We need housing especially for veterans. This is a perfect area for that.
• Small apartments for vets
• RV park
• Higher education
• Housing for family, job opportunities for vets, build houses using vets to learn a skill
• Veteran apartments
• The wishes of the veterans
• Post secondary education
• Has any thought been given to providing housing for veterans or at least to giving any age of veterans priority for such housing
• We need our vets here in Grand Island with an assisted living facility
• Save historical buildings and make a museum of them
• Planned multiuse park - recreation, office, green space, veteran’s legacy
• High school academy
• Keeping the veterans in mind since the land was originally given to the State for the veterans home
• Memorial park and housing or rehab center for veterans
• Go big or go home - make it a massive memorial park with a very large lake
• Walkable downtown type area like the Lincoln Haymarket
• Expanding Veterans Sport Complex
• Keep the vets home here. Show your support.
• It seems the City can’t wait to get its hands on this ground. Now we veterans know how the American Indians must have felt!
• Missing middle housing
• Have a memorial park between Veterans Home and cemetery to honor WWI, WWII, Korean, Vietnam, and all other veterans
• The existing veterans home buildings should be added to the National Registry and not touched
• Save the historic buildings! Save the lake! Save the campus! Build housing exclusively for veterans, homeless, disabled, or elderly vets.
• Veteran housing
• Veteran - exercise and fishing facility, homeless and half way housing
• Save the campus with the buildings and walkways, reuse as much as possible for direct services affecting veterans! Honor the past of the home
• Please keep the historic buildings
• Veterans home land is for the veterans period! Make it into a home for homeless veterans and disabled veterans.
• Use it as a veterans training center for new skills
• Affordable housing
• Higher eudcation wtih mixed uses with expanded veterans memorial
• Capturing the Hwy 281 frontage and entrance into the City
• Develop veterans education center; keep Memorial park and Vets Club.
• City and budget
• The Mayor and City Council
• Lack of funding
• The Mayor
• Tunnel vision
• Listen to what the people want
• Overcome the EDC’s desire to develop and commercialize
• Listen to what the people want as we are speaking for our
veterans
• City forming a committee with veterans to listen to the
veterans
• Biggest hurdle is the City administration not listening to
the veterans
• We need to listen to the veterans; instead of these capital
interests
• We have scads of youth ballfields in town of several
various games. We don’t need more!!
• Politics - the vets decide how to use the area for vets
• Not looking at the big picture
• Short sightedness
• We need to listen to the veterans
• Thinking too small and short term; think big and long term
• Who is going to pay for upkeep? No money!
• The City is the hurdle!
• We had a very difficult time finding out about this meeting
- called the mayor’s office and the Veteran’s service office,
but they had to both call me back - they didn’t know.
What uses are appropriate on site (all 640 acres)?
What uses are missing from the Grand Island area that could be accommodated on site?
What are the key development and redevelopment opportunities?
What are the key hurdles to development and redevelopment?
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82
• There isn’t 640 acres; use this land as was purposed for veterans land
• The veterans cemetery should be increased
• This land is to be returned to whose donated the land or the use by veterans, a cemetery for vets only!
• None that should deter a long range plan
• If they do divide into streets they should be named after veterans conflicts.
• Use rent to pay expenses
• Road access; RR traffic
• The dead veterans died thinking they would have a place forever. Given to Veterans for veterans.
• Use the rent of the field to help keep the home and keep running for future, etc.
• Don’t need rec, need things housing national cemetery
• Overcomming the BNRR • Busing for veterans, not the handy bus
• Extend Custer Ave. to at least Hwy. 2. Then connect Custer to Webb, north of the cemetery. Possible name for that connection would be “Grand Island Home Ave.”
• Love to see City public transport addressed
• Hike and bike trails
• Give it to the veterans. The farm income can help support the cost of operations.
• Can a service be offered to provide veterans a ride to visit friends in Kearney and provide rides from Kearney to the clinic in Grand Island?
• Moving GIHS ball stadium, soccer for visiting teams; wonderful. GIHS is landlocked and growing every year.
Are there infrastructure deficiencies that need to be addressed to develop the 640 acre site?Are there infrastructure and transportation opportunities that should be capitalized on?
What are the opportunities for enhancing aesthetics and character of the site?Are there objectionable or negative views or character that should be mitigated?
• Improving the lake area. Improve landscaping at Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
• Make Capital Ave. affected into Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Parkway
• Clean up lake and leave for all the veterans to use for fishing
• Memorial park honoring the veterans with statues
• Housing built by vets
• Enhance the Veterans Sport Complex
• Housing for homeless vets; job opportunities for vets
• Building a Grand Island version of New York’s Central Park; no commercial development!
• Better rail line
• Use complex for education and housing of veterans
• Remove obsolete buildings
• Keep out vets who don’t want to go to Kearney here; assist living for them
• Housing for 1/2 way and homeless vets
• City reflection of the land (i.e., low income residential)
• We need to use the soccer fields that were purchased specifically and our tax dollars for the expansion of the City cemetery. Not veterans ground!
• We expected some sort of organized meeting/presentation. How many times do we have to say this should be for the vets
• No more ball fields. Develop what you have not on the back of the veterans.
What site areas can or should be developed, changed, or altered?What areas on site should be protected, preserved, or enhanced?
• All but cemetery, vets club, and as much of the vets home
property as possible
• Enlarge sports complex, football stadium, adequate parking
• Our veterans would love to learn a trait and learn how to
help out with building a home for the homeless
• Bigger cemetery for all veterans
• Development for housing poor and homeless
• Lake could be opened up to all veterans
• No development for commercial or residential
• All areas for betterment of vets
• Use the area that the vets home is and have it developed for
housing with an emphasis for housing for veterans
• All areas should be used for benefits of all veterans!
• The farm land space is enormous and makes sense to be
developed in any way that will increase tax base which will
serve veterans and all community.
• Only for veterans. Apartments - small “club” in the middle
• The land could expand for the cemetery for vets to be
buried there.
• None
• Mixed use development - housing, office, commercial,
recreational
• Housing, job training, family housing
• We need an assited living facility for the vets
• Needs to stay for veterans needs
• None of it.
• All
• The whole area - land, buildings, etc. should be used by
vets for vets. Retraining tech job skills, house them there
• All of it!
• All for veterans
• This land and buildings should be for the veterans!
• All about veterans
• For veterans use only, not ball fields
• What do the veterans want to do?
• Use some of the existing buildings for homeless vets!
• All the historic buildings
• Cemetery, Veterans Club, county memorial
• Farm ground should be left for income for the property
• It should all be done according to what veterans want
• The Pershing Building, the lake, the gazebo
• Veteran’s Cemetery larger
• Make the lake larger, many trees
• Vets cemetery, all else for community
• Use some buildings for homeless vets, preserve some
buildings as part of a veteran’s museum (of Neb.),
preserve everything for the vet’s use
• Vet’s club, cemetery, existing campus
• Veteran’s Sport Complex
• The frontage should be as open as possible so the
cemetery comes into view for drivers heading west. City
cemetery expansion could begin north of a connection
between Custer and Webb, north of the memorial
cemetery
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83Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Concept Narrowing
Concept Prioritization
Day three began with a summary of the public open house by reviewing the public’s post-its notes placed on each of the 24 concepts. With those comments in mind, the stakeholders were
provided with six dot stickers and asked to vote for their favorite concepts. The results of that voting exercise are summarized below.
As shown in Stakeholder Prioritized Concepts, the top three preferred concepts were Concept #22, #18, and #20. They are shown below:
22
18
20Stakeholder Prioritized Concepts
Concept Number Number of Votes
22
18
20
13
17
16
19
10
4
3
5
15
9
12
1
2
6
7
8
11
14
21
23
24
21
21
15
5
5
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 90 / 212
84
Narrowed Concepts
The planning team assessed the prioritized concepts and proceeded to create three large-scale final concepts that integrated the preferred features from each concept. As the final session,
stakeholders evaluated the three narrowed concepts and provided comments via sticky notes. The comments are listed by each concept.
Narrowed Charrette Concept #1
• Developing both sides of Webb
Rd.• Active waterway• Multiple memorial points instead
of a singular memorial site• Boathouse restaurant• Water layout• Aquatics and fieldhouse• Efficient sports and recreation
layout• Recreation focus• Amount of green space
Like
• Moved homes• Development west of Webb Rd.• Amount of shoreline to maintain• Size of lake• No pedestrian overpass• Lazy lake concept• Seems to be most expensive
option
Dislike
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85Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Narrowed Charrette Concept #2
• Variety of options• Cemetery design that honors
veterans• Educational campus layout• North/south water flow• Pedestrian bridge• Support commercial• Balance of tax revenue generating
properties and green space
Like
• Lack of green space• Location of fieldhouse and
aquatics center• Distance between soccer fields
and baseball fields
Dislike
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86
Narrowed Charrette Concept #3
• Appropriate lake size for
commercial business park use• Good use of community center,
amphitheater, and rose garden• Use of water and site layout• Income from development
opportunities• Business park concept• Pedestrian bridge• Educational campus for potential
four year liberal arts college• Cemetery• Balance of development,
education, and green space• Water wrapped around athletic
complex• Soccer fields• East/west connection along
Broadwell Ave.
Like
• Missing housing• The only way to enjoy is with a
drive or long bike ride
Dislike
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87Veteran’s Legacy Project Master Plan
Market Feasibility Study
Appendix B
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City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item E-1
Public Hearing on Request from Casey’s Retail Company dba
Casey’s General Store #1768, 420 No. Broadwell Avenue for a
Class “D” Liquor License
Council action will take place under Consent Agenda item G-5.
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
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Council Agenda Memo
From:RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Meeting:March 13, 2018
Subject:Public Hearing on Request from Casey’s Retail Company
dba Casey’s General Store for a Class “D” Liquor
License for the Following Locations:
#1768, 420 No. Broadwell Avenue
#2737, 1814 No. Eddy Street
#2742, 2223 South Locust Street
#2903, 3428 W. Capital Avenue
#2707, 806 North Eddy Street
Presenter(s):RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Background
Section 4-2 of the Grand Island City Code declares the intent of the City Council
regarding liquor licenses and the sale of alcohol.
Declared Legislative Intent
It is hereby declared to be the intent and purpose of the city council in adopting
and administering the provisions of this chapter:
(A)To express the community sentiment that the control of availability of alcoholic
liquor to the public in general and to minors in particular promotes the public
health, safety, and welfare;
(B)To encourage temperance in the consumption of alcoholic liquor by sound and
careful control and regulation of the sale and distribution thereof; and
(C)To ensure that the number of retail outlets and the manner in which they are
operated is such that they can be adequately policed by local law enforcement
agencies so that the abuse of alcohol and the occurrence of alcohol-related crimes
and offenses is kept to a minimum.
Discussion
Casey’s Retail Company dba Casey’s General Store (see above locations) has submitted
an application for a Class “D” Liquor License. A Class “D” Liquor License allows for the
sale of alcohol off sale only inside the corporate limits of the city.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 128 / 212
City Council action is required and forwarded to the Nebraska Liquor Control
Commission for issuance of all licenses. This application has been reviewed by the Clerk,
Building, Fire, Health, and Police Departments.
This location currently has a Class “B” Liquor License which is for beer off sale only.
Since there is no change in ownership or manager, the Police Department doesn’t object
to the above listed Casey’s General Stores having a Class “D” Liquor License.
Also submitted was a request for Liquor Manager Designation for Tina Krings, 1212
Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska. Ms. Krings is the current liquor manager at all
these locations and has completed a state approved alcohol server/seller training program.
Staff recommends approval contingent upon final inspections.
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
1.Approve the application.
2.Forward to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission with no
recommendation.
3.Forward to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission with recommendations.
4.Deny the application.
Recommendation
Based on the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission’s criteria for the approval of Liquor
Licenses, City Administration recommends that the Council approve this application.
Sample Motion
Move to approve the applications for Casey’s Retail Company dba Casey’s General Store
for the following locations:
#1768, 420 No. Broadwell Avenue
#2737, 1814 No. Eddy Street
#2742, 2223 South Locust Street
#2903, 3428 W. Capital Avenue
#2707, 806 North Eddy Street
for a Class “D” Liquor License contingent upon final inspections and Liquor Manager
Designation for Tina Krings, 1212 Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 129 / 212
Class “D” Liquor License Application: Casey’s General Store #1768.
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CAREY AVEWHITE AVEGRACE AVE N2N D ST W BOGGS AVE NRUBY AVE3RD ST W
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^_420 BROADWELL AVE N
!Licensed Locations
Roads
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420 BROADWELL AVE N
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 130 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item E-2
Public Hearing on Request from Casey’s Retail Company dba
Casey’s General Store #2737, 1814 No. Eddy Street for a Class “D”
Liquor License
Council action will take place under Consent Agenda item G-6.
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 131 / 212
Class “D” Liquor License Application: Casey’s General Store #2737.
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!Licensed Locations
Roads
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1814 EDDY ST N
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 132 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item E-3
Public Hearing on Request from Casey’s Retail Company dba
Casey’s General Store #2742, 2223 South Locust Street for a Class
“D” Liquor License
Council action will take place under Consent Agenda item G-7.
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 133 / 212
Class “D” Liquor License Application: Casey’s General Store #2742.
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2223 LOCUST ST S
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 134 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item E-4
Public Hearing on Request from Casey’s Retail Company dba
Casey’s General Store #2903, 3428 W. Capital Avenue for a Class
“D” Liquor License
Council action will take place under Consent Agenda item G-8.
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 135 / 212
Class “D” Liquor License Application: Casey’s General Store #2903.
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CURRAN AVE
O GRADY ST
BRENNEN LNPLAZA DRCURRAN CT RIDGE POINTE DRCOLLEGE STRUE DE COLLEGEWEBB RD NDI
ERS AVE NUS 281 HWY NWEBB RD NUS 281 HWY NST PATRICK AVEU S 2 8 1 H W Y N
CAPITAL AVE WCAPITAL AVE WCARLETON AVECAPITAL AVE W
US 281 HWY N
US 281 HWY NCAPITAL AVE WUS 281 HWY NWEBB RD NO FLANNAGAN STCARLETON AVEUS 281 HWY NDIERS AVE NDIERS AVE NCAPITAL AVE W ST PATRICK AVECARLETON AVE
CURRAN AVE US 281 HWY NLegend
^_3428 CAPITAL AVE W
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Roads
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3428 CAPITAL AVE W
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 136 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item E-5
Public Hearing on Request from Casey’s Retail Company dba
Casey’s General Store #2707, 806 North Eddy Street for a Class
“D” Liquor License
Council action will take place under Consent Agenda item G-9.
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 137 / 212
Class “D” Liquor License Application: Casey’s General Store #2707.
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Legend
^_806 EDDY ST N
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806 EDDY ST N
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 138 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item F-1
#9680 - Consideration of Annexation of Property Located at 3406
and 3412 South Blaine Street - Gard Subdivision (Second Reading)
Staff Contact: Chad Nabity
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 139 / 212
Council Agenda Memo
From:Regional Planning Commission
Meeting:March 13, 2018
Subject:An Ordinance to include Gard Subdivision as an
Addition to the City of Grand Island, Nebraska and the
adjoining right-of -way
Presenter(s):Chad Nabity, AICP Planning Director
Background
The Annexation Component of the Grand Island Comprehensive Development Plan as
adopted by the Grand Island City Council on July 13, 2004 sets as the policy of Grand
Island that any and all property subdivided adjacent to the Corporate Limit of the City of
Grand Island be annexed into the City at the time of subdivision approval.
Randy L. Gard and Vicki J. Gard as the owners of the property, submitted Gard
Subdivision as an Addition to the City of Grand Island. The Hall County Regional
Planning Commission recommended approval of the subdivision at their meeting on
February 7, 2018. This ordinance was approved on first reading by the Grand Island City
Council at their meeting on February 27, 2018.
Discussion
Staff has prepared an ordinance in accordance with the requirements of Nebraska Revised
Statute §16-117. Annexation ordinances must be read on three separate occasions. This is
the first reading of the ordinance. This ordinance includes exhibits showing the property
to be considered for annexation and the legal descriptions of that property.
Annexation of this property will not result in the extension of the Grand Island Zoning
Jurisdiction.
One existing residence would be added to the City as a result of this annexation and two
additional building lots will be added.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 140 / 212
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
1.Move to approve
2.Refer the issue to a Committee
3.Postpone the issue to future date
4.Take no action on the issue
Recommendation
City Administration recommends that the Council pass the annexation ordinance.
Sample Motion
Move to approve the annexation ordinance on first reading.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 141 / 212
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 142 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
ORDINANCE NO. 9680
An ordinance to extend the boundaries and include within the corporate limits of,
and to annex into the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, a tract of land comprised of Gard
Subdivision and all adjoining right-of-way in Hall County, Nebraska as more particularly
described hereinafter and as shown on Exhibit “A” attached hereto; to provide service benefits
thereto; to repeal any ordinance or resolutions or parts of thereof in conflict herewith; to provide
for publication in pamphlet form; and to provide the effective date of this ordinance.
WHEREAS, after Randy L. Gard and Vicki J. Gard, as owners of the property submitted
a plat of Gard Subdivision an Addition to the City of Grand Island for approval; and
WHEREAS, the Annexation Component of the Comprehensive Development
Plan for the City of Grand Island requires that owners of property proposed for subdivision
adjacent to the Corporate Limits submit such subdivisions as additions to the City; and
WHEREAS, according to NRSS §16-177 the City of Grand Island can upon
petition of the property owner(s) of property contiguous and adjacent to the City Limits annex
said property by ordinance; and
WHEREAS, on February 27, 2018 the City Council of the City of Grand Island
approved such annexation on first reading and on March 13, 2018 approved such annexation on
second reading and on March 27, 2018 approved such annexation on third and final reading.
* This Space Reserved For Register of Deeds *
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 143 / 212
ORDINANCE NO. 9680 (Cont.)
- 2 -
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA:
SECTION 1. It is hereby found and determined that:
(A) The above-described tracts of land are urban or suburban in character, and
that the subject properties are contiguous or adjacent to the corporate limits of said City.
(B) The subject lands will receive the material benefits and advantages currently
provided to land within the City's corporate limits including, but not limited to police, fire,
emergency services, street maintenance, and utilities services upon annexation to the City of
Grand Island, Nebraska, and that City electric, water and sanitary sewer service is available, or
will be made available, as provided by law.
(C) The various zoning classifications of the land shown on the Official Zoning
Map of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, are hereby confirmed and that this annexation does
not extend the extraterritorial zoning jurisdiction.
(D) There is unity of interest in the use of the said tract of land, lots, tracts,
highways and streets (lands) with the use of land in the City, and the community convenience
and welfare and in the interests of the said City will be enhanced through incorporating the
subject land within the corporate limits of the City of Grand Island.
SECTION 2. The boundaries of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, be and are
hereby extended to include within the corporate limits of the said City the contiguous and
adjacent tract of land located within the boundaries described above.
SECTION 3. The subject tract of land is hereby annexed to the City of Grand
Island, Hall County, Nebraska, and said land and the persons thereon shall thereafter be subject
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 144 / 212
ORDINANCE NO. 9680 (Cont.)
- 3 -
to all rules, regulations, ordinances, taxes and all other burdens and benefits of other persons and
territory included within the City of Grand Island, Nebraska.
SECTION 4. The owners of the land so brought within the corporate limits of the
City of Grand Island, Nebraska, are hereby compelled to continue with the streets, alleys,
easements, and public rights-of-way that are presently platted and laid out in and through said
real estate in conformity with and continuous with the streets, alleys, easements and public
rights-of-way of the City.
SECTION 5. That a certified copy of this Ordinance shall be recorded in the
office of the Register of Deeds of Hall County, Nebraska and indexed against the tracts of land.
SECTION 6. Upon taking effect of this Ordinance, the services of said City shall
be furnished to the lands and persons thereon as provided by law, in accordance with the Plan for
Extension of City Services adopted herein.
SECTION 7. That all ordinances and resolutions or parts thereof in conflict
herewith are hereby repealed.
SECTION 8. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its
passage, approval and publication, in pamphlet form, as provided by law.
Enacted: March 27, 2018.
____________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 145 / 212
ORDINANCE NO. 9680 (Cont.)
- 4 -
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 146 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-1
Approving Minutes of February 27, 2018 City Council Regular
Meeting
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 147 / 212
CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA
MINUTES OF CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
February 27, 2018
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of
Grand Island, Nebraska was conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 100 East First
Street, on February 27, 2018. Notice of the meeting was given in The Grand Island Independent
on February 21, 2018.
Mayor Jeremy L. Jensen called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following City Council
members were present: Mitch Nickerson, Mark Stelk, Jeremy Jones, Chuck Haase, Julie Hehnke,
Linna Dee Donaldson, Vaughn Minton, Roger Steele, and Mike Paulick. Councilmember Fitzke
was absent. The following City Officials were present: City Administrator Marlan Ferguson,
City Clerk RaNae Edwards, Interim Finance Director William Clingman, City Attorney Jerry
Janulewicz, and Public Works Director John Collins.
Mayor Jensen introduced Community Youth Council member Maddy Oskeson.
INVOCATION was given by Bishop Duane Fuller, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
212 West 22nd Street followed by the PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
BOARD OF EQUALIZATION: Motion by Minton, second by Nickerson to adjourn to the
Board of Equalization. Motion adopted.
#2018-BE-2 - Consideration of Determining Benefits and Levy Special Assessments for
Sidewalk Installation at 4194 Norseman Avenue. Public Works Director John Collins reported
that work had been completed on the sidewalk installation at 4194 Norseman Avenue for a total
cost of $3,025.00 to be assessed to the adjacent property owner. Staff recommended approval.
Motion by Donaldson, second by Stelk to approve Resolution #2018-BE-2. Upon roll call vote,
all voted aye. Motion adopted.
RETURN TO REGULAR SESSION: Motion by Minton, second by Nickerson to return to
Regular Session. Motion adopted.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Public Hearing on Request from GIPH Restaurants, LLC dba Pizza Hut, 1023 West 2nd Street
for a Class “D” Liquor License. City Clerk RaNae Edwards reported that an application for a
Class “D” Liquor License had been received GIPH Restaurants, LLC dba Pizza Hut, 1023 West
2nd Street. Ms. Edwards presented the following exhibits for the record: application submitted to
the Liquor Control Commission and received by the City on February 5, 2018; notice to the
general public of date, time, and place of hearing published on February 17, 2018; notice to the
applicant of date, time, and place of hearing mailed on February 5, 2018; along with Chapter 4 of
the City Code. Staff recommended approval. No public testimony was heard.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 148 / 212
Page 2, City Council Regular Meeting, February 27, 2018
Public Hearing on Request from Mid-Country Trading, LLC on behalf of USA Communications
for a Conditional Use Permit to Place a 100’ Self Supporting Telecommunications Tower
Located at 3539 West 13th Street, Suite A. Building Department Director Craig Lewis reported
that an application was received from Mid-Country Trading, LLC on behalf of USA
Communications for a Conditional Use Permit to construct a telecommunication tower at 3539
West 13th Street. Staff recommended approval. No public testimony was heard.
Public Hearing on Request from Kristy Cavanaugh for a Conditional Use Permit to Place a
Modular Home while Living in the Current Structure Located at 3318 E. Seedling Mile Road.
Building Department Director Craig Lewis reported that Kristy Cavanaugh had submitted an
application for a Conditional Use Permit to place a modular home while living in the current
structure located at 3318 E. Seedling Mile Road. The proposed construction was anticipated to
take up to 6 months to complete and allowing 60 to 90 days to remove the existing dwelling an
expiration date for the conditional use permit appeared reasonable for February 28, 2019 or
within 90 days after a certificate of occupancy was issued for the new dwelling. Staff
recommended approval. No public testimony was heard.
Public Hearing on Request from Marsha Mars for a Conditional Use Permit for a Day Care
Facility located at 2524 West Division Street. Building Department Director Craig Lewis
reported that Marsha Mars had submitted an application for a Conditional Use Permit to allow
for the operation of a day care facility within the existing single family dwelling located at 2524
West Division Street. Staff recommended approval. No public testimony was heard.
Public Hearing on Adoption of the Grand Island Zoning Map. Regional Planning Director Chad
Nabity reported that a new map incorporating changes made since the last re-adoption and
including other proposed changes had been prepared. Staff recommended approval. No public
testimony was heard.
Public Hearing on Annexation of Property Located at 3406 and 3412 South Blaine Street (Gard
Subdivision). Regional Planning Director Chad Nabity reported that any and all property
subdivided adjacent to the Corporate Limit of the City of Grand Island be annexed into the City
at the time of subdivision approval. Randy L. Gard and Vicki J. Gard, as the owners of the
property located at 3406 and 3412 South Blaine Street, submitted Gard Subdivision as an
Addition to the City of Grand Island. One existing residence would be added to the City as a
result of this annexation and two additional building lots would be added. Staff recommended
approval. No public testimony was heard.
Public Hearing on Acquisition of Public Right-of-Way in Windolph’s Subdivision (Villanueva).
Public Works Director John Collins reported that the City had approached Marcos A. and
Josefina Villanueva, owners of 2725 E Seedling Mile Road, in regards to acquiring an additional
13.5 foot of public right-of-way (half of the 27 foot needed to gain a full 60 foot width) on the
northern end of Museum Drive to move towards gaining consistency in the width of such public
roadway. During negotiations with the property owners interest was expressed in irrigating the
currently dry farm land they own at such location. An agreement was reached between City staff
and such property owners to transfer the City’s rights in the certified irrigated acres adjacent to
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 149 / 212
Page 3, City Council Regular Meeting, February 27, 2018
450 Museum Drive, on the southern end of Museum Drive. Staff recommended approval. No
public testimony was heard.
ORDINANCES:
Councilmember Minton moved “that the statutory rules requiring ordinances to be read by title
on three different days are suspended and that ordinances numbered:
#9677 - Consideration of Assessments for Sidewalk Installation at 4194 Norseman
Avenue
#9678 - Consideration of Adoption of the Grand Island Zoning Map
#9679 - Consideration of Addendum for Sale of Property at 4808 Gold Core Drive
be considered for passage on the same day upon reading by number only and that the City Clerk
be permitted to call out the number of these ordinances on second reading and then upon final
passage and call for a roll call vote on each reading and then upon final passage.”
Councilmember Nickerson seconded the motion. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye. Motion
adopted.
#9677 - Consideration of Assessments for Sidewalk Installation at 4194 Norseman
Avenue
This item was related to the aforementioned Board of Equalization hearing.
Motion by Stelk, second by Jones to approve Ordinance #9677.
City Clerk: Ordinance #9677 on first reading. All those in favor of the passage of this ordinance
on first reading, answer roll call vote. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye. Motion adopted.
City Clerk: Ordinance #9677 on second and final reading. All those in favor of the passage of
this ordinance on second and final reading, answer roll call vote. Upon roll call vote, all voted
aye. Motion adopted.
Mayor Jensen: By reason of the roll call votes on first reading and then upon second and final
readings, Ordinance #9677 is declared to be lawfully adopted upon publication as required by
law.
#9678 - Consideration of Adoption of the Grand Island Zoning Map
This item related to the aforementioned Public Hearing.
Motion by Donaldson, second by Minton to approve Ordinance #9678.
City Clerk: Ordinance #9678 on first reading. All those in favor of the passage of this ordinance
on first reading, answer roll call vote. Upon roll call vote, Councilmembers Paulick, Steele,
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Page 4, City Council Regular Meeting, February 27, 2018
Minton, Donaldson, Hehnke, Jones, Stelk, and Nickerson voted aye. Councilmember Haase
voted no. Motion adopted.
City Clerk: Ordinance #9678 on second and final reading. All those in favor of the passage of
this ordinance on second and final reading, answer roll call vote. Upon roll call vote,
Councilmembers Paulick, Steele, Minton, Donaldson, Hehnke, Jones, Stelk, and Nickerson voted
aye. Councilmember Haase voted no. Motion adopted.
Mayor Jensen: By reason of the roll call votes on first reading and then upon second and final
readings, Ordinance #9678 is declared to be lawfully adopted upon publication as required by
law.
#9679 - Consideration of Addendum for Sale of Property at 4808 Gold Core Drive
Utilities Director Tim Luchsinger reported that the executed Farm, Land and Ranch Agreement
executed by the City and Lyne Realty, L.P., the buyer, on December 12, 2017 indicated both the
legal lot description and the lot size. The lot size of 9.03 acres was obtained from the County
Assessor’s office and used in the advertisement of the property. The agreement also included the
provision for a Phase 1 environmental survey and a boundary survey by the Buyer. The
completed boundary survey resulted in an actual lot size of 8.91 acres. The Buyer subsequently
requested consideration of a pro-rated deduction of the purchase price of $4,336.00, for a final
price of $320,664.00. Staff recommended approval.
Motion by Jones, second by Paulick to approve Ordinance #9679.
City Clerk: Ordinance #9679 on first reading. All those in favor of the passage of this ordinance
on first reading, answer roll call vote. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye. Motion adopted.
City Clerk: Ordinance #9679 on second and final reading. All those in favor of the passage of
this ordinance on second and final reading, answer roll call vote. Upon roll call vote, all voted
aye. Motion adopted.
Mayor Jensen: By reason of the roll call votes on first reading and then upon second and final
readings, Ordinance #9679 is declared to be lawfully adopted upon publication as required by
law.
#9680 – Consideration of Annexation of Property Located at 3406 and 3412 South Blaine
Street - Gard Subdivision (First Reading)
This item was related to the aforementioned Public Hearing.
Motion by Haase, second by Minton to approve Ordinance #9680 on first reading. Upon roll call
vote, all voted aye. Motion adopted.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 151 / 212
Page 5, City Council Regular Meeting, February 27, 2018
CONSENT AGENDA: Consent Agenda item G-4 was pulled from the agenda. Motion by
Paulick, second by Hehnke to approve the Consent Agenda excluding item G-4. Upon roll call
vote, all voted aye. Motion adopted.
Approving Minutes of February 13, 2018 City Council Regular Meeting.
#2018-47 - Approving Request from GIPH Restaurants, LLC dba Pizza Hut, 1023 West 2nd
Street for a Class “D” Liquor License and Liquor Manager Designation for Brett Klanecky, 2123
No. Wheeler Avenue.
#2018-48 - Approving Preliminary/Final Plat and Subdivision Agreement for Lassonde Third
Subdivision. It was noted that Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity, owners, had submitted
the Preliminary/Final Plat and Subdivision Agreement for Lassonde Third Subdivision located
south of Capital Avenue and west of the Central Nebraska Railroad line for the purpose of
creating 23 lots on 3.593 acres.
#2018-49 - Approving NACE Coating Inspection Services for the Elevated Water Storage Tower
with REOD, LLC of Wentzville, Missouri. This item was pulled at the request of the Utilities
Department.
#2018-50 - Approving Bid Award - Transmission Circuit Breaker Inspection Services with
Power Delivery Services, Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska in an Amount of $76,641.00.
#2018-51 - Approving Bid Award - GT3 Modified Hot Gas Path Inspection with General
Electric International, Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska in an Amount of $494,261.00.
#2018-52 - Approving Change Order #1 for Water Main District 469T - Engleman Road from
Stolley Park Road North 1/2 Mile with The Diamond Engineering Company of Grand Island,
Nebraska for an Increase of $2,150.23 and a Revised Contract Amount of $287,056.79.
#2018-53 - Approving Certificate of Final Completion for Water Main District 469T - Engleman
Road from Stolley Park Road North 1/2 Mile with The Diamond Engineering Company of Grand
Island, Nebraska.
#2018-54 - Approving Request from Grand Island Substance Abuse Prevention
Coalition/Tobacco Free Hall County for Permission to Use City Streets/Trails and State Highway
for the Outrun Addiction Family Fun Run.
#2018-55 - Approving Acquisition of Public Right-of-Way in Windolph’s Subdivision
(Villanueva).
#2018-56 - Approving Transferring Certified Irrigated Rights from the City of Grand Island to
Marcos A. and Josefina Villanueva (2725 E Seedling Mile Road).
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 152 / 212
Page 6, City Council Regular Meeting, February 27, 2018
#2018-57 - Approving Amendment No. 1 for Engineering Consulting Services Related to Lift
Station No. 11 Relocation and Force Main Reroute with Olsson Associates of Lincoln, Nebraska
for an Increase of $131,705.00 and a Revised Contract Amount of $260,047.00.
#2018-58 - Approving Bid Award for 13th Street Paving Improvements; Project No. 2018-P-1
and 13th Street Water Main Improvements; Project No. 2018-W-5 with Blessing Construction of
Kearney, Nebraska in an Amount of $1,975,887.43.
#2018-59 - Approving Amendment No. 2 to Engineering Consulting Agreement for 13th Street
Roadway Improvements; Project No. 2018-P-1 with Alfred Benesch & Company of Lincoln,
Nebraska for an Increase of $255,896.97 and a Revised Contract Amount of $412,178.22.
#2018-45 - Approving Amendment to Resolution for Change Order #1 for the Grand Island
Veteran's Athletic Field Construction Phase 2 with Nemaha Landscape Construction, Inc. of
Lincoln, Nebraska for an Increase of $21,907.00 and a Revised Contract Amount of
$5,599,255.00.
REQUESTS AND REFERRALS:
Consideration of Request from Mid-Country Trading, LLC on behalf of USA Communications
for a Conditional Use Permit to Place a 100’ Self Supporting Telecommunications Tower
Located at 3539 West 13th Street, Suite A. This item was related to the aforementioned Public
Hearing. Tyler Cretacci representing USA Communications answered questions regarding the
type of tower and type of service. Franchise fees and occupation taxes were discussed.
Motion by Minton, second by Stelk to approve the request. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye.
Motion adopted.
Consideration of Request from Kristy Cavanaugh for a Conditional Use Permit to Place a
Modular Home while Living in the Current Structure Located at 3318 E. Seedling Mile Road.
This item was related to the aforementioned Public Hearing.
Motion by Hehnke, second by Minton to approve the request. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye.
Motion adopted.
Consideration of Request from Marsha Mars for a Conditional Use Permit for a Day Care
Facility located at 2524 West Division Street. This item was related to the aforementioned Public
Hearing. Discussion was held concerning fire codes.
Motion by Paulick, second by Jones to approve the request. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye.
Motion adopted.
PAYMENT OF CLAIMS:
Motion by Minton, second by Donaldson to approve the payment of claims for the period of
February 14, 2018 through February 27, 2018 for a total amount of $3,409.996.95. Upon roll call
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 153 / 212
Page 7, City Council Regular Meeting, February 27, 2018
vote, Councilmembers Minton, Steele, Donaldson, Hehnke, Haase, Jones, Stelk, and Nickerson
voted aye. Councilmember Paulick abstained. Motion adopted.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
RaNae Edwards
City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 154 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-2
Approving Appointments of Russell Rerucha and Dave Koubek to
the Citizens Advisory Review Committee Board
Mayor Jensen has submitted the appointments of Russell Rerucha and Dave Koubek to the Citizens
Advisory Review Committee Board to replace Ray O'Connor who resigned and Dean Renter whose term
expired. The appointments would become effective immediately upon approval by the City Council and
would expire on September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2019 respectively.
Staff Contact: Mayor Jeremy Jensen
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 155 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-3
Approving Appointment of Amos Anson to the Downtown Business
Improvement District 2013 Board
Mayor Jensen has submitted the appointment of Amos Anson to the Downtown Business Improvement
District 2013 Board to replace Bradley Kissler who resigned. The appointment would become effective
immediately upon approval by the City Council and would expire on September 30, 2018.
Staff Contact: Mayor Jeremy Jensen
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 156 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-4
Approving Liquor Manager Request for Corky Anderson, 16320
Madison Street, Omaha, Nebraska for Fresh Thyme Farmers
Market, 3535 West 13th Street, Suite 113
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 157 / 212
Council Agenda Memo
From:RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Meeting:March 13, 2018
Subject:Request from Corky Anderson, 16320 Madison Street,
Omaha, NE for Liquor Manager Designation with Fresh
Thyme Farmers Market, 3535 West 13th Street, Suite 113
Presenter(s):RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Background
Corky Anderson, 16320 Madison Street, Omaha, NE has submitted an application with
the City Clerk’s Office for a Liquor Manager Designation in conjunction with Fresh
Thyme Farmers Market, 3535 West 13th Street, Suite 113.
This application has been reviewed by the Police Department and City Clerk’s Office.
See Police Department report attached.
Discussion
City Council action is required and forwarded to the Nebraska Liquor Control
Commission for issuance of all liquor manager designations. All departmental reports
have been received. Staff recommends approval contingent upon completion of a state
approved alcohol server/seller training program.
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
1.Approve the requests.
2.Forward the requests with no recommendation.
3.Take no action on the requests.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 158 / 212
Recommendation
City Administration recommends that the Council approve the request for Liquor
Manager Designation.
Sample Motion
Move to approve the request from Corky Anderson, 16320 Madison Street, Omaha, NE
for Liquor Manager Designation in conjunction with the Class “C-122214” Liquor
License for Fresh Thyme Farmers Market, 3535 West 13th Street, Suite 113 with the
stipulation that Mr. Anderson complete a state approved alcohol server/seller training
program.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 159 / 212
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 160 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-5
#2018-60 - Approving Request from Casey’s Retail Company dba
Casey’s General Store #1768, 420 No. Broadwell Avenue for a
Class “D” Liquor License and Liquor Manager Designation for
Tina Krings, 1212 Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska
This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing item E-1.
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 161 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-60
WHEREAS, an application was filed by Casey’s Retail Company doing business
as Casey’s General Store #1768, 420 No. Broadwell Avenue for a Class "D" Liquor License; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing notice was published in the Grand Island
Independent as required by state law on March 3, 2018; such publication cost being $8.58; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on March 13, 2018 for the purpose of
discussing such liquor license application.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that:
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of the above-
identified liquor license application contingent upon final inspections.
____The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the
above-identified liquor license application.
____The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the
above-identified liquor license application with the following stipulations:
__________________________________________________________
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends denial of the above-
identified liquor license application for the following reasons:_________
__________________________________________________________
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of Tina Krings,
1212 Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska as liquor manager of such
business.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 162 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-6
#2018-61 - Approving Request from Casey’s Retail Company dba
Casey’s General Store #2737, 1814 No. Eddy Street for a Class “D”
Liquor License and Liquor Manager Designation for Tina Krings,
1212 Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska
This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing item E-2.
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 163 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-61
WHEREAS, an application was filed by Casey’s Retail Company doing business
as Casey’s General Store #2737, 1814 N. Eddy Street for a Class "D" Liquor License; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing notice was published in the Grand Island
Independent as required by state law on March 3, 2018; such publication cost being $8.58; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on March 13, 2018 for the purpose of
discussing such liquor license application.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that:
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of the above-
identified liquor license application contingent upon final inspections.
____The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the
above-identified liquor license application.
____The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the
above-identified liquor license application with the following stipulations:
__________________________________________________________
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends denial of the above-
identified liquor license application for the following reasons:_________
__________________________________________________________
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of Tina Krings,
1212 Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska as liquor manager of such
business.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 164 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-7
#2018-62 - Approving Request from Casey’s Retail Company dba
Casey’s General Store #2742, 2223 South Locust Street for a Class
“D” Liquor License and Liquor Manager Designation for Tina
Krings, 1212 Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska
This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing item E-3.
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 165 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-62
WHEREAS, an application was filed by Casey’s Retail Company doing business
as Casey’s General Store #2742, 2223 South Locust Street for a Class "D" Liquor License; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing notice was published in the Grand Island
Independent as required by state law on March 3, 2018; such publication cost being $8.58; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on March 13, 2018 for the purpose of
discussing such liquor license application.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that:
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of the above-
identified liquor license application contingent upon final inspections.
____The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the
above-identified liquor license application.
____The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the
above-identified liquor license application with the following stipulations:
__________________________________________________________
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends denial of the above-
identified liquor license application for the following reasons:_________
__________________________________________________________
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of Tina Krings,
1212 Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska as liquor manager of such
business.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 166 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-8
#2018-63 - Approving Request from Casey’s Retail Company dba
Casey’s General Store #2903, 3428 W. Capital Avenue for a Class
“D” Liquor License and Liquor Manager Designation for Tina
Krings, 1212 Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska
This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing item E-4.
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 167 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-63
WHEREAS, an application was filed by Casey’s Retail Company doing business
as Casey’s General Store #2903, 3428 W. Capital Avenue for a Class "D" Liquor License; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing notice was published in the Grand Island
Independent as required by state law on March 3, 2018; such publication cost being $8.58; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on March 13, 2018 for the purpose of
discussing such liquor license application.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that:
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of the above-
identified liquor license application contingent upon final inspections.
____The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the
above-identified liquor license application.
____The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the
above-identified liquor license application with the following stipulations:
__________________________________________________________
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends denial of the above-
identified liquor license application for the following reasons:_________
__________________________________________________________
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of Tina Krings,
1212 Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska as liquor manager of such
business.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 168 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-9
#2018-64 - Approving Request from Casey’s Retail Company dba
Casey’s General Store #2707, 806 North Eddy Street for a Class
“D” Liquor License and Liquor Manager Designation for Tina
Krings, 1212 Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska
This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing item E-5.
Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 169 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-64
WHEREAS, an application was filed by Casey’s Retail Company doing business
as Casey’s General Store #2707, 806 North Eddy Street for a Class "D" Liquor License; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing notice was published in the Grand Island
Independent as required by state law on March 3, 2018; such publication cost being $18.49; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on March 13, 2018 for the purpose of
discussing such liquor license application.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that:
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of the above-
identified liquor license application contingent upon final inspections.
____The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the
above-identified liquor license application.
____The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the
above-identified liquor license application with the following stipulations:
__________________________________________________________
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends denial of the above-
identified liquor license application for the following reasons:_________
__________________________________________________________
____The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of Tina Krings,
1212 Blue Stem Circle, Norfolk, Nebraska as liquor manager of such
business.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 170 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-10
#2018-65 - Approving Bid Award - Precipitator Bottom Ash and
Boiler Industrial Cleaning - Spring 2018 Outage
Staff Contact: Tim Luchsinger, Stacy Nonhof
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 171 / 212
Council Agenda Memo
From:Timothy G. Luchsinger, Utilities Director
Stacy Nonhof, Assistant City Attorney
Meeting Date:March 13, 2018
Subject: Precipitator, Bottom Ash and Boiler Industrial Cleaning
– Spring 2018
Presenter(s):Timothy G. Luchsinger, Utilities Director
The electrostatic precipitator at the Platte Generating Station is the air quality control
equipment used to remove coal ash particulates from the plant’s boiler flue gas stream.
Proper performance of this equipment is required as part of the plant’s operating permit.
Due to volume and characteristics of the coal ash, the precipitator must be grit blasted
twice a year to remove ash build-up to allow the plant to remain below permitted
emission levels. In addition to maintaining performance, removal of the ash deposits also
allows an inspection of the precipitator internal surfaces and components.
The next outage is scheduled for May of this year. Specifications were developed by the
plant maintenance staff for the removal of ash deposits throughout the precipitator and
boiler including grit blasting of the electrostatic precipitator, bulk vacuuming of the
associated ductwork and hoppers, blasting deposits from boiler tubing and high pressure
water wash of the bottom ash system and air heater.
Discussion
The specifications for the Precipitator, Bottom Ash and Boiler Industrial Cleaning -
Spring 2018 Outage, were advertised and issued for bid in accordance with the City
Purchasing Code. Bids were publicly opened on February 22, 2018. Specifications were
sent to seven potential bidders and two responses were received as listed below. The
engineer’s estimate for this project was $160,000.00.
Bidder Bid Amount
Meylan Enterprises, Inc., Omaha, Nebraska $141,281.73
W-S Industrial Service, Inc., Council Bluffs, Iowa $162,687.51
The bids were reviewed by Utility Engineering staff. All bids were in compliance with
the specifications and had no exceptions. The bid from Meylan Enterprises is compliant
with the specifications and less than the engineer’s estimate.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 172 / 212
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
1.Move to approve
2.Refer the issue to a Committee
3.Postpone the issue to future date
4.Take no action on the issue
Recommendation
City Administration recommends that the Council approve the bid of Meylan Enterprises
of Omaha, Nebraska, as the low responsive bidder, with a bid in the amount of
$141,281.73.
Sample Motion
Move to approve the bid in the amount of $141,281.73 from Meylan Enterprises for the
Precipitator, Bottom Ash and Boiler Industrial Cleaning – Spring 2018 Outage.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 173 / 212
Purchasing Division of Legal Department
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
Stacy Nonhof, Purchasing Agent
Working Together for a
Better Tomorrow, Today
BID OPENING
BID OPENING DATE:February 22, 2018 at 2:00 p.m.
FOR:Precipitator, Bottom Ash & Boiler Industrial
Cleaning – Spring 2018
DEPARTMENT:Utilities
ESTIMATE:$160,000.00
FUND/ACCOUNT:520
PUBLICATION DATE:February 3, 2017
NO. POTENTIAL BIDDERS:7
SUMMARY
Bidder:Meylan Enterprises, Inc.
Omaha, NE
Bid Security:Universal Surety Co.
Exceptions:None
Bid Price:
Precipitator Abrasive Air Heater Vacuum Hydro-blast
Cleaning Wash Services Services
Material:$ 4,876.00 $20,705.00 $22,615.00 $20,670.00
Labor:$28,613.00 $ 5,640.00 $19,080.00 $ 9,840.00
Sales Tax:$ 2,344.23 $ 1,844.15 $ 2,918.65 $ 2,135.70
Base Bid:$35,833.23 $28,189.15 $44,613.65 $32,645.70
Total Bid $144,281.73
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 174 / 212
Bidder:W-S Industrial Services, Inc.
Council Bluffs, IA
Bid Security:Merchants Bonding Co.
Exceptions:None
Bid Price:
Precipitator Abrasive Air Heater Vacuum Hydro-blast
Cleaning Wash Services Services
Material:$20,212.00 $23,520.00 $12,240.00 $17,280.00
Labor:$17,772.00 $ 9,606.80 $33,840.90 $17,622.70
Sales Tax:$ 2,655.38 $2,318.88 $ 3,225.66 $ 2,443.19
Base Bid:$40,589.38 $35,445.68 $49,306.56 $37,345.89
Total Bid $162,687.51
cc:Tim Luchsinger, Utilities Director Darrell Dorsey, PGS Plant Superintendent
William Clingman, Interim Finance Director Stacy Nonhof, Purchasing Agent
Pat Gericke, Utilities Admin. Assist.Karen Nagel, Utilities Secretary
P2037
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 175 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-65
WHEREAS, the City of Grand Island invited sealed bids for Precipitator, Bottom
Ash and Boiler Industrial Cleaning – Spring 2018 Outage, according to plans and specifications
on file with the Utilities Department; and
WHEREAS, February 22, 2018, bids were received, opened and reviewed; and
WHEREAS, Meylan Enterprises, Inc., of Omaha, Nebraska, submitted a bid in
accordance with the terms of the advertisement of bids and plans and specifications and all other
statutory requirements contained therein, such bid being in the amount of $141,281.73; and
WHEREAS, the bid of Meylan Enterprises, Inc., is less than the estimate for
Precipitator, Bottom Ash and Boiler Industrial Cleaning – Spring 2018 Outage.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the bid of Meylan Enterprises, Inc., in
the amount of $141,281.73, for Precipitator, Bottom Ash and Boiler Industrial Cleaning – Spring
2018 Outage, is hereby approved as the lowest responsible bid.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
___________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 176 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-11
#2018-66 - Approving NACE Coating Inspection Services for the
Elevated Water Storage Tower
Staff Contact: Tim Luchsinger, Stacy Nonhof
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 177 / 212
Council Agenda Memo
From:Timothy G. Luchsinger, Utilities Director
Stacy Nonhof, Assistant City Attorney
Meeting:March 13, 2018
Subject:Elevated Water Storage Tower Construction - NACE
Coating Inspection Services
Presenter(s):Timothy G. Luchsinger, Utilities Director
Background
The City’s water system consists of 21 low pressure wells, located on a 1,200 acre island
in the Platte River, which supplies water to an on-site collection and pumping station.
This pumping station transfers water through transmissions mains to several reservoir
stations in the City. These pumping stations provide water for residential and industrial
use as well as fire protection for the City.
In early 2015, a Water Master Plan study was completed identifying the need for elevated
storage, and for a zoned distribution system. The tank will be painted during the
construction. To ensure the paint will last, it is important to monitor the contractor to
ensure proper application of the coating to the paint manufacturer’s specification. A
NACE qualified inspector will observe, test, verify conformance to the specification, and
provide a written report for warranty issues.
Discussion
The request for proposal for NACE qualified coating inspection services for the Elevated
Water Storage Tower Construction for the City’s municipal water system was publically
advertised in accordance with the City Purchasing Code. Proposals from the following
firms were received:
Company
Olsson Associates
Omnitech Construciton Services
REOD, LLC
McGill Restoration
B&N Inspection Services
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 178 / 212
Using a matrix of the Department’s established evaluation criteria, which included
Company Experience, Personnel Experience, Proposal Responsiveness, Pricing and
Commercial Terms, the proposals were reviewed by Utility Engineers. A tabulation of
the evaluations factors indicated a consensus for REOD, LLC of Wentzville, Missouri.
That firm’s proposal was ranked #1 by each evaluator.
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
1.Move to approve
2.Refer the issue to a Committee
3.Postpone the issue to future date
4.Take no action on the issue
Recommendation
City Administration recommends that the Council award the Proposal for the Elevated
Water Storage Tower Construction-NACE Coating Inspection Services to REOD, LLC
of Wentzville, Missouri, with the price not to exceed $62,420.00.
Sample Motion
Move to approve the proposal from REOD, LLC of Wentzville, Missouri, for the
Elevated Water Storage Tower Construction - NACE Coating Inspection Services with
the price not to exceed $62,420.00.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 179 / 212
Purchasing Division of Legal Department
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
Stacy Nonhof, Purchasing Agent
Working Together for a
Better Tomorrow, Today
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
FOR
ELEVATED WATER STORAGE TANK CONSTRUCTION –
NACE COATING INSPECTION SERVICES
RFP DUE DATE:January 23, 2018 at 4:00 p.m.
DEPARTMENT:Utilities
PUBLICATION DATE:December 21, 2017
NO. POTENTIAL BIDDERS:4
SUMMARY OF PROPOSALS RECEIVED
Omnitech Construction Services REOD, LLC
Breaux Bridge, LA Wentzville, MO
B & N Inspection & Supply McGill Restoration
Chesterfield, MO Omaha, NE
Olsson Associates
Omaha, NE
cc:Tim Luchsinger, Utilities Director Pat Gericke, Utilities Admin. Assist.
Marlan Ferguson, City Administrator Renae Jimenez, Finance Director
Stacy Nonhof, Purchasing Agent Lynn Mayhew, Assist. Utilities Director
Karen Nagel, Utilities Secretary
P2027
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 180 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-66
WHEREAS, the City of Grand Island advertised a Request for Proposals for
Elevated Water Storage Tower Construction – NACE Coating Inspection Services, according to
plans and specifications on file with the Utilities Department; and
WHEREAS, on January 23, 2018, proposals were received, opened and reviewed;
and
WHEREAS, REOD, LLC, of Wentzville, Missouri submitted a proposal for
Elevated Water Storage Tower Construction – NACE Coating Inspection Services for a price not
to exceed $62,420.00.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the proposal from REOD, LLC, is
hereby approved for a price not to exceed $62,420.00.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
___________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 181 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-12
#2018-67 - Approving Bid Award - Transmission Circuit Breaker
Inspection Services
Staff Contact: Tim Luchsinger, Stacy Nonhof
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 182 / 212
Council Agenda Memo
From:Tim Luchsinger, Utilities Director
Stacy Nonhof, Assistant City Attorney
Meeting:March 13, 2018
Subject:Rescinding of Resolution 2018-50 and award of
Transmission Circuit Breaker Inspection Services,
Contract #18-PCC-01
Presenter(s):Tim Luchsinger, Utilities Director
Background
The Grand Island electric system utilizes eight 115,000 volt substations at various
locations around the City and a 115,000 volt transmission loop to provide reliable power
to the City. These substations contain, among other components, transmission circuit
breakers that interrupt power to a transmission line when trouble on that line occurs.
Ninety-five percent of the circuit breakers are at least fifteen years old. Manufacturers
recommend performing an internal inspection of the breakers based upon the number of
operations. Records indicate that they are due for that inspection.
Due to the concern of introducing contaminants into the breakers as well as creating gas
leaks by physically opening them up, the industry has moved to a radiological inspection
that essentially x-rays the internal components. Technicians with specialized software can
then determine if the breakers are in need of additional maintenance.
On February 27, 2018, Council approved Resolution 2018-50 awarding a contract for
Transmission Circuit Breaker Inspection Services to Power Delivery Services, Inc. Power
Delivery Services, Inc. (also known as PDS, Inc.), in Omaha is the authorized regional
representative of ABB, Inc. In preparing the contract documents for execution, it became
apparent that the resolution authorizing the contract award should have designated ABB,
Inc., as the contractor instead of Power Delivery Services, Inc.
Discussion
Based upon discussions with the Legal Department, City administration recommends
rescinding Resolution 2018-50 and awarding the bid for Transmission Circuit Breaker
Inspection Services to ABB, Inc., Mount Pleasant, PA in the amount of $76,641.00 as the
lowest responsible bid received.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 183 / 212
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
1. Move to approve
2. Refer the issue to a Committee
3. Postpone the issue to a future date
4. Take no action on the issue
Recommendation
City Administration recommends that the Council rescind Resolution 2018-50 and
approve the bid for Transmission Circuit Breaker Inspection Services to ABB, Inc.,
Mount Pleasant, PA, in the amount of $76,641.00.
Sample Motion
Move to rescind Resolution 2018-50 and approve the bid for Transmission Circuit
Breaker Inspection Services to ABB, Inc., Mount Pleasant, PA, in the amount of
$76,641.00.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 184 / 212
Purchasing Division of Legal Department
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
Stacy Nonhof, Purchasing Agent
Working Together for a
Better Tomorrow, Today
BID OPENING
BID OPENING DATE:February 13, 2018 at 2:00 p.m.
FOR:Transmission Circuit Breaker Inspection Services #18-PCC-01
DEPARTMENT:Utilities
ESTIMATE:$200,000.00
FUND/ACCOUNT:520
PUBLICATION DATE:January 17, 2018
NO. POTENTIAL BIDDERS:6
SUMMARY
Bidder:Power Delivery Services, Inc. representing ABB, Inc.
Omaha, NE
Bid Security:Westchester Fire Insurance Co.
Exceptions:Noted
Bid Price:
Inspections:$62,631.00
Mobilization:$14,010.00
Sales Tax: ----___
Total:$76,641.00
cc:Tim Luchsinger, Utilities Director Pat Gericke, Utilities Admin. Assist.
Marlan Ferguson, City Administrator William Clingman, Interim Finance Director
Stacy Nonhof, Purchasing Agent Travis Burdett, Assist. Utilities Director
P2032
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 185 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-67
WHEREAS, the City of Grand Island invited sealed bids for Transmission Circuit
Breaker Inspection Services, according to plans and specifications on file with the Utilities
Department; and
WHEREAS, on February 13, 2018, bids were received, opened and reviewed; and
WHEREAS, Power Delivery Services, Inc., of Omaha, Nebraska, an authorized
regional representative of ABB Inc., submitted a bid in accordance with the terms of the
advertisement of bids and plans and specifications and all other statutory requirements contained
therein, such bid being in the amount of $76,641.00; and
WHEREAS, the bid of Power Delivery Services, Inc., was approved by Council
Resolution #2018-50 on February 27, 2018; and
WHEREAS, the bid award should contractually be with ABB, Inc., of Mount
Pleasant, PA instead of Power Delivery Services, Inc.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that Resolution #2018-50 awarding the bid
to Power Delivery Services, Inc., be rescinded and the bid of ABB, Inc., Mount Pleasant, PA, in
the amount of $76,641.00, for Transmission Circuit Breaker Inspection Services, is hereby
approved as the lowest responsible bid.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
___________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 186 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-13
#2018-68 - Approving Contract Renewal for Annual Pavement
Markings for the Streets Division of the Public Works Department
Staff Contact: John Collins, P.E. - Public Works Director
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 187 / 212
Council Agenda Memo
From:Shannon Callahan, Streets Superintendent
Meeting:March 13, 2018
Subject:Approving Contract Renewal for Annual Pavement
Markings for the Streets Division of the Public Works
Department
Presenter(s):John Collins, Public Works Director
Background
Pavement markings are a critical part of maintaining safety of the City’s roadways and
have strict standards on size, location, color, and reflectivity set by the Manual on
Uniform Traffic Control. Since the 2014 striping season a contractor has been utilized for
painted pavement marking maintenance which has allowed the Streets Division to re-
organize its labor force and focus on the storm sewer cleaning program. Another benefit
of utilizing contractor services is a reduction in traffic disruption accomplished by “night
work”, conducted during off-peak hours, and faster completion times due to the use of
specialized equipment.
In February of 2017 (bid summary below), the City of Grand Island City Council
authorized the award of a pavement marking maintenance contract to Straight-Line
Striping, Inc. of Grand Island, NE. The renewable contract was written as a three year
agreement, which includes the original term plus two opportunities to renew for an
additional one-year period.
Bid Summary from February 7, 2017.
Bidder Sub-Contractor(s)Exceptions Total Bid
Straight-Line Striping, Inc.
Grand Island, NE
County Line Striping, LLC
Grand Island, NE None $86,690.95
Highway Signs, Inc.
Omaha, NE None None $125,470.00
Trafcon, Inc.
Lincoln, NE None None $162,520.00
A change order was approved in 2017 for a total contract amount of $93,690.35.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 188 / 212
Discussion
2018 will be the first renewal period under the existing contract with Straight-Line
Striping. The one-year renewal term is contingent upon mutual agreement, by the City
and the Contractor, of the original contract terms and any unit price changes.
The Streets Division and Straight-Line Striping, Inc. both have an interest in renewing
the contract for the 2018 striping season.
The Streets Division increased the estimated quantities to align better with actual striping
that needs completed per the change order approved in 2017; Straight-Line Striping has
proposed a $0.003 per linear foot unit price increase for 4” lane lines for a total contract
amount of $102,339.00. Straight-Line Striping has also proposed the use of the same
subcontractor as last year, County Line Striping, for pavement marking symbols.
Public Works staff compared the proposed unit prices to the original bids received in
2017 and Straight-Line Striping’s new unit prices are still below the other bidder(s).
Therefore, Public Works considers these prices to be fair and justified.
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
1.Move to approve
2.Refer the issue to a Committee
3.Postpone the issue to future date
4.Take no action on the issue
Recommendation
City Administration recommends that the Council approve the first contract renewal
period of Annual Pavement Markings 2017 to Straight-Line Striping, Inc. of Grand
Island, Nebraska in the amount of $102,339.00.
Sample Motion
Move to approve the first contract renewal period of Annual Pavement Markings 2017 to
Straight-Line Striping, Inc. of Grand Island, Nebraska in the amount of $102,339.00.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 189 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-68
WHEREAS, the City of Grand Island City Council authorized a contract for
Annual Pavement Markings 2017 with Straight-Line Striping, Inc. of Grand Island, Nebraska on
February 28, 2017; and
WHEREAS, the contract allowed for two additional one-year terms pending
mutual agreement between the City and the Contractor, including negotiated unit price
adjustments; and
WHEREAS, Straight-Line Striping, Inc. of Grand Island, Nebraska submitted
justified unit price changes and proposed County Line Striping as a subcontractor for the 2018
contract renewal period, and has fulfilled other statutory requirements contained therein; and
WHEREAS, based on the City’s estimated quantities and the proposed unit prices
the total estimated cost for the 2018 contract renewal period is $102,339.00; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the unit prices and subcontractor
proposed by Straight-Line Striping, Inc. of Grand Island, Nebraska for the Annual Pavement
Markings 2017 first contract renewal period is mutually agreeable.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a contract renewal for such project between
the City and such contractor be entered into, and the Mayor is hereby authorized and directed to
execute such contract on behalf of the City of Grand Island.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 190 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-14
#2018-69 - Approving Purchase of a New ½ Ton, Four-Wheel
Drive, Extended Cab Pick-up for the Streets Division of the Public
Works Department
Staff Contact: John Collins, P.E. - Public Works Director
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 191 / 212
Council Agenda Memo
From:Shannon Callahan, Street Superintendent
Meeting:March 13, 2017
Subject:Approving Purchase of a New ½ Ton, Four-Wheel Drive,
Extended Cab Pick-up for the Streets Division of the
Public Works Department
Presenter(s):John Collins PE, Public Works Director
Background
The Streets Division of the Public Works Department budgeted $32,000 in fiscal year
2017/2018 for a new ½ Ton, Four-Wheel Drive, Extended Cab Pick-up.
Foreman’s vehicles have the most miles placed on them each year; this new unit will
replace a foreman vehicle and the vehicle currently used as a foreman vehicle will be
replacing work truck, Unit 210. The extended cab is needed for additional room to keep
work items accessible, such as maps and safety gear, and still transport passengers.
Unit 210 is a 1999 Ford F-150 with approximately 6,050 hours on the engine; the
odometer does not work so exact mileage is unknown but would be assumed between
48,000 and 58,000 miles. Unit 210 has a repair cost to purchase price ratio of 0.99 and
Fleet Services has identified several repairs that will need completed, including new tires,
if this vehicle is not replaced. This vehicle will be offered to other Divisions before
being sold at auction.
Discussion
The vehicle specifications awarded under State of Nebraska Contract No. 14853 OC to
Husker Auto Group of Lincoln, Nebraska meet all of the requirements for the Streets
Division. The purchase price of the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 extended cab with
four-wheel drive under the State of Nebraska Contract will be $28,578.00.
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 192 / 212
1.Move to approve
2.Refer the issue to a Committee
3.Postpone the issue to future date
4.Take no action on the issue
Recommendation
City Administration recommends that the Council approve the purchase of a New ½ Ton,
Four-Wheel Drive, Extended Cab Pick-up using the State of Nebraska Contract No.
14853 OC awarded to Husker Auto Group of Lincoln, Nebraska for a purchase price
$28,578.00.
Sample Motion
Move to approve the resolution.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 193 / 212
UNIT 210
Front
Back
Driver Side
Passenger Side
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 194 / 212
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 195 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 20182 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-69
WHEREAS, the Streets Division of the Public Works Department for the City of
Grand Island, budgeted for a vehicle in the 2017/2018 fiscal year; and
WHEREAS, the State of Nebraska Contract No. 14853 OC meets all equipment
specifications and all statutory bidding requirements; and
WHEREAS, the State of Nebraska awarded said contract to Husker Auto Group
of Lincoln, Nebraska.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that a purchase order and subsequent
payment is authorized for a New ½ Ton, Four-Wheel Drive, Extended Cab Pick-up in the
amount of $28,578.00 from Husker Auto Group of Lincoln, Nebraska.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
______________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 196 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item G-15
#2018-70 - Approving Change Order No. 1 for Concrete Pavement
and Storm Sewer Repair 2018, Various Locations
Staff Contact: John Collins, P.E. - Public Works Director
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 197 / 212
Council Agenda Memo
From:Shannon Callahan, Street Superintendent
Meeting:March 13, 2018
Subject:Approving Change Order No. 1 for Concrete Pavement
and Storm Sewer Repair 2018, Various Locations
Presenter(s):John Collins PE, Public Works Director
Background
The Diamond Engineering Company of Grand Island, NE was awarded a $796,309.60
contract by the City Council on January 11, 2018, via Resolution No. 2018-11, for
Concrete Pavement and Storm Sewer Repair 2018, Various Locations.
Discussion
Change Order No. 1 is for the addition of a line item, Reconstruct Manhole, to the current
contract. Approximately 36 manholes were lowered with the 2017-AC-1 project on the
Capital Avenue and North Road sections of work. This line item will be used to rebuild
the top of these manholes and will include traffic control, labor, and tools required to
complete the work. This change will not have a net impact on the contract amount.
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
1.Move to approve
2.Refer the issue to a Committee
3.Postpone the issue to future date
4.Take no action on the issue
Recommendation
City Administration recommends that the Council approve Change Order No. 1 for
Concrete Pavement and Storm Sewer Repair 2018, Various Locations.
Sample Motion
Move to approve the resolution.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 198 / 212
City of Grand Island CHANGE ORDER NUMBER 1
100 East 1st Street
Grand Island, Nebraska 68801 Date of Issuance: March 13, 2017
PROJECT: Concrete Pavement and Storm Sewer Repair 2018, Various Locations
CONTRACTOR: The Diamond Engineering Company
CONTRACT DATE: January 23, 2018
Change order to add an additional line item of Reconstruct Manhole to current contract. Approximately 36
manholes were lowered with the 2017-AC-1 project on the Capital Avenue and North Road sections of work. This
line item will be used to rebuild the top of these manholes and will include traffic control, labor, and tools required
to complete the work. This change will not impact the total contract amount.
Quantity Unit Price Total Price
1.Reconstruct Manhole 36 EA $2,000.00 $72,000.00
TOTAL OF CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 $72,000.00
Contract Price Prior to This Change Order .....................................................................................$ 796,309.60
Net Increase/Decrease Resulting from this Change Order .............................................................$ no net change
Revised Contract Price Including this Change Order................................................................$ 796,309.60
Approval Recommended:
By_______________________________________
John Collins PE, Public Works Director
Date
The Above Change Order Accepted:Approved for the City of Grand Island:
The Diamond Engineering Company By_________________________________
Contractor Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
By Attest:
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Date Date_______________________________
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 199 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-70
WHEREAS, The Diamond Engineering Company of Grand Island, NE was awarded a
$796,309.60 contract by the City Council on January 11, 2018, via Resolution No. 2018-11, for
Concrete Pavement and Storm Sewer Repair 2018, Various Locations; and
WHEREAS, it has been determined that a modification is needed to be made to
allow for the addition of a line item, Reconstruct Manhole; and
WHEREAS, such modifications have been incorporated into Change Order No. 1;
and
WHEREAS, the result of such modification will not impact the net contract
amount.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the Mayor be, and hereby is,
authorized and directed to execute Change Order No. 1 between the City of Grand Island and
The Diamond Engineering Company of Grand Island, Nebraska to provide the modification.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 200 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item I-1
#2018-71 - Consideration of Approving Contract with Cornerstone
Bank for Banking Services
Staff Contact: William Clingman, Interim Finance Director
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 201 / 212
Council Agenda Memo
From:William Clingman, Interim Finance Director
Meeting:March 13, 2018
Subject:Consideration of Approving Contract with Cornerstone
Bank for Banking Services
Presenter(s):William Clingman, Interim Finance Director
Background
On December 29, 2017 the City advertised an RFP for Banking Services. On January 25,
2018 this RFP closed and 7 banks submitted proposals. Staff from the Finance
Department reviewed all submitted bids and then selected Cornerstone Bank because of
the evaluation process.
Discussion
The City of Grand Island has utilized our current bank for at least the last decade and
because it has not been formally evaluated for such a long time, an RFP was issued for
banking services. These two primary drivers led to the selection of Cornerstone Bank.
The estimated impact of the change to Cornerstone bank will be at least a net gain of
$700,000 on an annual basis to the total City of Grand Island cash balance; however,
based on our current balance as of early March 2018, the net impact would be closer to
$950,000.
A secondary result of this change in banks will be the elimination of lockbox services for
utility related payments. This is because of two primary reasons. First, the Finance
Department for the last several months evaluated the benefit of lockbox services for
utility payments. It was determined that we currently have staff to process these payments
in house and that by bringing them in house we will eliminate some of the errors in
payment processing that have been attributed to the City’s use of the lockbox services.
Second, Cornerstone Bank does not offer lockbox services, nor do they have plans to
offer them. The elimination of the lockbox will not be immediate, but will be phased out
over the next several months.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 202 / 212
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
1.Move to approve
2.Refer the issue to a Committee
3.Postpone the issue to future date
4.Take no action on the issue
Recommendation
City Administration recommends that the City Council approve the resolution to establish
banking services with Cornerstone Bank.
Sample Motion
Move to approve the resolution.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 203 / 212
Purchasing Division of Legal Department
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
Stacy Nonhof, Purchasing Agent
Working Together for a
Better Tomorrow, Today
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
FOR
BANKING SERVICES
RFP DUE DATE:January 25, 2018 at 4:00 p.m.
DEPARTMENT:Finance
PUBLICATION DATE:December 29, 2017
NO. POTENTIAL BIDDERS:10
SUMMARY OF PROPOSALS RECEIVED
UMB Bank Wells Fargo
Kansas City, MO Denver, CO
Equitable Bank Cornerstone Bank
Grand Island, NE York, NE
Five Points Bank Great Western Bank
Grand Island, NE Grand Island, NE
Union Bank & Trust
Lincoln, NE
cc:Marlan Ferguson, City Administrator Renae Jimenez, Finance Director
Stacy Nonhof, Purchasing Agent William Clingman, Assist. Finance Director
P2029
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 204 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-71
WHEREAS, the Finance department advertised a Request for Proposals (RFP) for
Banking Services in December of 2017; and
WHEREAS, the RFP closed on January 25, 2018; and
WHEREAS, a committee reviewed all proposals that were received; and
WHEREAS, Cornerstone Bank was selected to provide the primary banking
services to the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the agreements with Cornerstone Bank
for banking and deposit services is approved.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018
_______________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 205 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item I-2
#2018-72 - Consideration of Approving one (1) Full-Time
Equivalent Park Maintenance Worker for the Parks & Recreation
Department
Staff Contact: Todd McCoy, Parks & Recreation Director
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 206 / 212
Council Agenda Memo
From:Todd McCoy, Parks and Recreation Director
Meeting:March 13, 2018
Subject:Consideration to Approve Hiring Park Maintenance
Position
Presenter(s):Todd McCoy, Parks and Recreation Director
Background
It was decided during the 2017-18 City Budget discussions that two park maintenance
positions would be reduced. Plans were formed to offset staff reductions by reducing
athletic field preparation and outsourcing certain park maintenance functions such as
emptying trash barrels.
On December 17, 2017 the Parks and Recreation Department advertised for proposals to
empty trash barrels during the busy parks season. Businesses were asked to provide
pricing for empting 269 trash barrels in 28 locations twice per week starting in April and
ending October 15, 2018. Five companies responded to the trash barrel service Request
for Proposal.
Discussion
Proposals were reviewed by Parks and Recreation, Legal, Administration, Finance, and
Human Resources staff. After further review it was determined that the City would have
a higher value and be better served by hiring an additional full-time Park Maintenance
position rather than accepting the proposals.
The estimated annual cost for a first year Park Maintenance employee with family
benefits is approximately $60,346.00. Parks staff would manage park trash pickup and
parks spraying requirement as they did in prior years. We have $80,000 available in
contract services that we could use to cover the cost of an employee.
Staff recommends not accepting the trash barrel service proposal and immediately hire
one (1) full-time Park Maintenance position.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 207 / 212
Alternatives
It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand.
The Council may:
1.Move to approve
2.Refer the issue to a Committee
3.Postpone the issue to future date
4.Take no action on the issue
Recommendation
City Administration recommends that the City Council approve the addition of one (1)
full-time Park Maintenance Worker.
Sample Motion
Move to approve the addition of one (1) full-time Park Maintenance Worker position in
the current City budget.
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 208 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-72
WHEREAS, in the fiscal budget of 2017-2018 two (2) full-time FTE’s were
eliminated from the Parks and Recreation Department; and
WHEREAS, plans were formed to offset staff reductions by outsourcing certain
park maintenance functions; and
WHEREAS, proposals were received for such functions and after review of
proposals by city administration it was determined the City would have a higher value and be
better served by hiring an additional full-time Park Maintenance position rather than accepting
the proposals; and
WHEREAS, the City Parks and Recreation Department is asking for an increase
of 1.0 Full-Time Equivalent Employee (FTE).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the budget be revised to include an
additional 1.0 FTE for a Park Maintenance position in the general fund.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 209 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item I-3
#2018-73 – Consideration of Adopting Veteran’s Legacy Project
Master Plan Phase 1
This item relates to the aforementioned Presentation item C-1.
Staff Contact: Marlan Ferguson
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 210 / 212
Approved as to Form ¤ ___________
March 14, 2018 ¤ City Attorney
R E S O L U T I O N 2018-73
WHEREAS, In 2016, the State of Nebraska conveyed to the City of Grand Island
various tracts of real estate that were a part of the Central Nebraska Veterans Home; and
WHEREAS, The property conveyed includes tracts north of Nebraska Highway 2
between Broadwell Avenue and Webb Road and South of Highway 281 as well as the
agricultural lands south of Highway 2 and north of Capital Avenue; and
WHEREAS, The City issued an RFP seeking proposals from a qualified
consulting firm to assist in the development of a reuse plan for these lands; and
WHEREAS, Olsson Associates, Inc. was selected as the preferred consultant for
providing the services requested. As such, Olsson Associates, Inc. and their partner Ochsner
Hare and Hare underwent a master planning process, guided by input from project stakeholders,
City staff members, and residents of Grand Island. This document details that master planning
process, the basis for the master plan’s recommendations, and the master plan itself. The plan is
not a static document. While it was compiled as a reflection of existing conditions and
stakeholders’ and the public’s interests at the time, the plan will have important implications for
future site redevelopment, growth, and development projects.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the Veterans Legacy Master Plan be
adopted as presented.
- - -
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, March 13, 2018.
_______________________________________
Jeremy L. Jensen, Mayor
Attest:
_______________________________________
RaNae Edwards, City Clerk
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 211 / 212
City of Grand Island
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
Council Session
Item J-1
Approving Payment of Claims for the Period of February 28, 2018
through March 13, 2018
The Claims for the period of February 28, 2018 through March 13, 2018 for a total amount of
$3,976,633.37. A MOTION is in order.
Staff Contact: William Clingman
Grand Island Council Session - 3/13/2018 Page 212 / 212