South Omaha ready to use American Rescue Plan money for community projects
OMAHA, Nebraska (Nebraska) — A diverse group of nonprofits and businesses in South Omaha gathered Wednesday to send a message to Nebraska lawmakers: They are ready to use American Rescue Plan money for community projects.
The money is part of the $325 million in COVID relief or ARPA money approved by the legislature for North and South Omaha last year.
Cesar Garcia of Canopy South said the projects are ready to go and will be handed over to state senators next time.
“The next step is for us to work closely with state senators and let them know we’re ready,” he said. “That we have the capability, we have the experience, we have the talent and trust from the community, and a proven track record that we can bring proposed projects to fruition.”
Earlier this month, state senators held a town hall in North Omaha. One was not planned for South Omaha. Projects in both areas were recommended for funding.
The final decision must come from the state legislature. This bill is still being worked on and federal funding should be spent by 2026.
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