Omaha’s $9 Billion Makeover: What It Means for Event Planners and Hosts

Omaha is in the middle of one of the largest transformations in its history. Over $9 billion in active development projects are reshaping the city’s skyline, infrastructure, and visitor experience.

From new hotels and entertainment districts to major upgrades at Eppley Airfield and the CHI Health Convention Center, the future of Omaha is bright and it’s great news for anyone who plans or hosts events here.

Let’s break down what’s happening and how it makes hosting events in Omaha easier, more exciting, and more profitable.

A City on the Rise: Where the $9 Billion Is Going

Omaha’s investment wave spans almost every corner of the city, with developments designed to boost tourism, mobility, and the overall experience for visitors and residents alike.

Here are some of the headline projects shaping Omaha’s future:

Downtown Core Revitalization
The skyline is getting a new centerpiece with the 44-story Mutual of Omaha Tower, part of a massive downtown redevelopment effort that will include new retail, restaurants, and gathering spaces.

Combined with the already reimagined Gene Leahy Mall and The RiverFront project (a $325 million riverfront park and performance area), Omaha’s downtown will soon be one of the Midwest’s most walkable, scenic, and event-friendly urban cores.

Eppley Airfield Expansion
Omaha’s airport is undergoing nearly a $950 million renovation, adding new gates, expanding terminals, and improving passenger flow. For planners, that means easier travel for attendees — fewer layovers, more direct flights, and a smoother arrival experience.

Omaha Streetcar Project
Imagine your attendees hopping on a modern streetcar from their hotel to the convention center or riverfront park — no shuttles, no parking issues. That’s the future coming with the $300 million streetcar system, slated to be operational around 2028. It will connect key event zones, including the CHI Health Center, downtown hotels, and major entertainment districts.

CHI Health Center Expansion
Plans are in motion to expand Omaha’s main convention and event venue with 90,000 square feet of new meeting space and 25 breakout rooms. That means larger conferences, more flexible setups, and better production infrastructure for events of all sizes.

RiverFront, Parks, and Public Spaces
The new Heartland of America Park and Lewis & Clark Landing developments offer performance pavilions, lawns for outdoor events, and stunning views of the Missouri River. These spaces open doors for hybrid events, concerts, galas, and experiential activations unlike anything Omaha has offered before.

Hotels, Entertainment & Mixed-Use Districts
The Crossroads redevelopment (at 72nd & Dodge) will transform the former mall site into a massive mixed-use hub with hotels, shopping, and event-friendly public plazas. Avenue One, a 200-acre project near West Dodge, will add even more retail, lodging, and dining options for large-scale event logistics.

All together, these projects are part of the $9 billion figure cited by Visit Omaha – a once-in-a-generation investment in the city’s future.

Why This Matters for Event Planners and Hosts

If you plan events in or around Omaha, this boom should be on your radar. Here’s how it directly benefits you:

More venue options: Expanded and upgraded spaces mean more flexibility and capacity for conventions, meetings, and galas.
Better accessibility: A larger airport and new streetcar system make attendee travel easier and event-day logistics smoother.
More walkable experiences: Attendees can move between hotels, restaurants, and venues without needing transport – boosting engagement and satisfaction.
New creative possibilities: The RiverFront and downtown parks open opportunities for outdoor receptions, concerts, and hybrid events.
Increased appeal for national events: Omaha will soon be able to compete with larger Midwest destinations like Kansas City or Minneapolis for major conferences and expos.

Timing: When These Changes Take Effect

While the transformation is underway now, many major components are on a 3–5 year timeline.

Mutual of Omaha Tower: 2026
Eppley Airfield Expansion: 2028
Streetcar: 2028
CHI Health Center Expansion: 2027
RiverFront Developments: Several sections already open

That means planners booking events for 2026–2030 will have access to an entirely redefined cityscape.

The Bottom Line: Omaha Is Leveling Up

Omaha isn’t just growing — it’s evolving into a world-class event destination. The next few years will bring more space, better mobility, and more energy to the heart of the city.

For event planners, it’s the perfect time to:

• Build relationships with venues early
• Scout locations around the new developments
• Plan future conferences, galas, and expos that align with Omaha’s emerging infrastructure

Omaha is investing $9 billion into its future — and that future is bright for events.

Stay Connected
Want to stay ahead of the curve? Follow Omaha Event Network for more updates on new venue openings, construction timelines, and insider tips on hosting incredible events in Omaha.