The Omaha Downtown Improvement District Foundation (ODIDF) has been awarded $12,500 from the Douglas County Visitor Improvement Fund to support an alley revitalization project in the Historic Old Market District.
About The Project
ODID is working with the Old Market Association (OMA) to transform alleys—often overlooked and underutilized spaces—into cleaner, safer, and more welcoming community areas.
The grant will fund:
- Dumpster consolidation in a selected alley
- Power washing & deep cleaning
- New lighting and seating amenities
- Opportunities for local artists to add creativity and character
Once complete, the alley will be reintroduced to residents and visitors with a celebration highlighting businesses whose front doors open onto the space.
Why It Matters
“Alleys are often somewhat blighted and overlooked, but when cleaned up and presented correctly they can become essential community spaces,” said Holly Barrett, ODID Executive Director.
“We’re thrilled to receive this grant from the Douglas County Visitors Fund. It shows the commissioners understand the value of placemaking in unexpected places, especially in the urban core where public space is limited to sidewalks and alleys.”
Looking Ahead
The goal of this project is to return the alley to the neighborhood in a functional way—and to set the stage for future alley revitalization efforts across the Old Market and beyond.
This success may open opportunities for:
- Expanding dumpster consolidation
- Additional alley cleanups and enhancements throughout Downtown
- Further conversations on the role of alleys as vibrant public spaces
