Downtown Omaha is a shared space—maintained, activated, and improved by many different partners. We often hear the question: “Who’s responsible for what?” To help clarify, here’s a quick breakdown of the roles each group plays in keeping Downtown clean, green, safe, and welcoming.
Property Owners
- Doorways & Curblines: Keep areas free of material or litter that could endanger pedestrians.
- Trees: Responsible for installing new trees, replacing unhealthy trees within 6 months, and maintaining them (watering, fertilizing, care). ODIDA can consult on tree types and maintenance.
- Snow Removal: Sidewalks must be cleared within 24 hours of city snow operations. Alleys must remain accessible for trash pickup and services.
- Flowerbeds: Owners are responsible for planting, weeding, and watering beds adjacent to their property.
- Sidewalks & Alleys: Maintenance, repairs, and cleanliness fall on property owners; the city may complete work and assess costs if needed.
The City of Omaha
- Public Services: Police, fire, and public amenities.
- Trash & Graffiti: City crews empty sidewalk trash cans (Mon–Sat) and respond to graffiti cleanup.
- Snow Removal: Responsible for roads, public lots, and park sidewalks.
- Public Plantings: Provides flowerbeds at 11th & Howard and the Library.
- Trees (over 20 ft): City plants, trims, and removes larger trees, with replacements provided if needed in the first year. After that, property owners assume responsibility.
Omaha Downtown Improvement District (ODIDA)
- Mission: To support, preserve, create, and enhance a clean, green, safe, and active Downtown that attracts businesses, employees, residents, and visitors.
- What We Do:
- Curbline litter cleanup and crosswalk snow removal
- Planting and maintaining trees under 20 feet and select flowerbeds
- Hiring private security and off-duty officers for daily patrols
- Hosting Ambassadors to assist visitors during summer months
- Promoting Downtown events and happenings
- Advocating for businesses, property owners, and residents
- Serving as a resource for district information
- Curbline litter cleanup and crosswalk snow removal
Old Market Association (OMA)
- Mission: To unite the voices of the Old Market in celebration of its people, to strengthen its community, and to ensure its vitality—captivating those who are here for a day or for a lifetime.
- What They Do:
- Promote Old Market businesses and attractions
- Manage communications and membership programs
- Host events and enhance the area with amenities
- Coordinate seasonal holiday décor (as funding allows)
- Maintain OldMarket.com with directory listings
- Promote Old Market businesses and attractions
Get Involved
Downtown works best when everyone participates. Here’s how you can help:
- Join Committees: ODIDA’s Activation, Pedestrian Amenities, or Safety & Security Committees are open to the public.
- Attend Meetings: ODIDA Board (last Tuesday monthly, 5:30 PM) • OMA Membership (First Tuesday monthly, 9 AM) • City Council (Tuesdays, 2 PM).
- Submit Issues: Use the Mayor’s Hotline (OmahaHotline.com) to report graffiti, potholes, sidewalk issues, or weeds.
- Volunteer or Donate: Contact info@omahaDowntown.org to support beautification, events, or special projects.
✨ Why it matters: Keeping Downtown vibrant is a shared responsibility. By working together—property owners, the city, ODIDA, OMA, and community members—we ensure Downtown remains a safe, clean, and inspiring place for all.
