ODIDA
Project Spotlight
What We've Been Up To...
ODIDA Project Spotlight highlights the projects ODIDA delivers across Clean, Green, Safe, and Active. This page highlights specific projects that show how ODIDA’s work comes to life on the ground. From alley lighting and utility box art wraps to new plantings and public forums, each spotlight tells the story of how we DO our part to make Downtown Omaha cleaner, safer, and more welcoming.
Explore the projects below to see recent wins, partners involved, and what’s coming next.
Want to Get Involved?
See a project you love—or want to help champion the next one? Join a committee or connect with our team to share ideas and feedback. Committee and board engagement are key to how place management organizations deliver impact.
How these projects come to life
Most projects begin in our three core committees—Activation, Pedestrian Amenities, and Safety & Security—then move forward with staff and partner support. Committee work is a standard best practice across improvement districts and helps board members champion “pet” projects that advance community goals.
Explore the spotlights below, then dive into each project for why it matters, ways to participate and more information.
Downtown Cleanup Days
Join Downtown Cleanup Days in Omaha. Volunteer one hour to help keep Downtown clean. Monthly events April through September. Supplies provided.
Downtown Alley Alive | First Friday Art Walk
Downtown Alley Alive is a free, all ages pilot alley activation event in the Old Market on Friday, May 1 from 5 to 9 PM. Enjoy live music, live art, food and drink offers, and First Friday Art Walk energy in the 11th Street alley between Howard and Jackson.
A New Home for Downtown Omaha Information
ODIDA’s new website is live, and it is built to make Downtown information easier to find, easier to share, and easier to use. Explore events, projects, resources, and ways to get involved, all in one place.
16th Street Alley Lighting Project
Upgraded lighting in an alley by installing LED fixtures with dusk-to-dawn photocells to deter criminal problems, boosting visibility at entries while reducing glare and spill.
2025 Public Forum: Reimagining Omaha
The sold-out event brought the community together to reflect on Omaha’s transportation history and imagine a more connected future.
Utility Box Art Wrap Project
Across Omaha’s Central Business District and Old Market District, colorful designs now brighten the streetscape, celebrating local talent while making Downtown more vibrant and welcoming.
Tree Guard Program
Protect street trees. Elevate curb appeal. Create a consistent, welcoming streetscape across Downtown Omaha.
SafeWalk Program
Helping everyone feel secure in Downtown Omaha though our program in partnership with Lion’s Gate Security, ODIDA contracted private security firm.