Amid the growth in Omaha’s historic Little Bohemia neighborhood, new businesses and apartments are popping up. However, this growth brings its own set of challenges, including an increase in traffic that is causing concerns about accessibility and safety. Dave Hempel, owner of Sheet Metal Works located on 13th street, has noticed a rise in trucks coming to the area daily, making it difficult to unload.

The Business Improvement District (BID) focused on development last year and is now addressing safety and accessibility concerns in the neighborhood. The industrial businesses outside of the current BID want to ensure they can continue to operate effectively while improvements are made. To achieve this, the new board will prioritize better lighting, improved parking options, creating additional spaces for parking outside the main corridor and enhancing streetscapes to control traffic flow.

Rick Hullinger, owner of Chicago Lumber although not on the board recognizes the importance of these enhancements as the neighborhood continues to expand. City councilmembers are set to review and potentially approve the BID at an upcoming meeting, signaling progress towards making Little Bohemia a more vibrant and safer community for all residents and businesses.