Infrastructure Deterioration in Popular Neighborhood
Native plantings were used along the entire project area.
Known as Omaha’s first suburb, the historic Dundee neighborhood dates to the early 1880s. This popular historical area features countless fine restaurants, two major parks, and an eclectic mix of residential architecture. In 2011, the Dundee District was named one of the nation’s Great Neighborhoods by the American Planning Association. After more than 130 years, however, several areas within the district needed substantial infrastructure improvements. Snyder & Associates was hired by the City of Omaha to begin the Dundee Streetscape project. The project would include the design and oversight for a series of renovations and aesthetic improvements along Underwood Avenue, between 49th and 51st Street, and along 50th Street from California Street to Webster Street. This multifaceted project site lies within the heart of the neighborhood’s business district and required our staff’s vast expertise of surveyors, civil engineers, landscape architects, structural engineers, and construction personnel.
Public Outreach Campaign Helps Guide Design Process
To jumpstart the project, our team began with an extensive planning process and public outreach campaign. This included 3D renderings, public informational meetings, and numerous business owner meetings to guide decision-makers in creating a united vision for Dundee. Numerous existing conditions were addressed as part of the planning process. These included the need for repairing pavement deterioration at many locations, more cohesive stormwater drainage and management plan improved ADA accessibility and elevation change upgrades, and the need for an attractive streetscape corridor. After our detailed review and meticulous planning, the Snyder & Associates team was able to create a pleasing balance within the corridor, resulting in a 25 percent increase in parking spaces and an even greater complete street environment, featuring:
- 40 additional on-street parking spaces
40 on-street parking spaces were added to the Dundee District.
- New sidewalks throughout the project area
- Decorative streetlights, benches, tables, brick pavers, bike parking stations, and trash receptacles
- Plazas areas for public gathering
- Rain garden at 50th Street and Underwood Avenue
- Variety of trees, shrubs, grasses, and flowers
Because all businesses in the project area needed to remain open during construction, the staging was critical. Our team worked with the contractor to monitor progress and inform businesses of current project staging and upcoming work activities to keep any inconveniences to a minimum. The Snyder & Associates team also provided preliminary design, final construction documents, and construction assistance. The entire project’s construction occurred over six months at a cost of $2.5 million, funded in partnership between the City of Omaha, private donors, businesses, and the neighborhood. The completed streetscape design project creates a welcoming, attractive public space, encouraging community growth and vibrancy.
