OMAHA — A proposed $181 million public safety headquarters that would bring together key administrative functions for both Omaha police and fire departments is to rise on a 3.2-acre site in central Omaha, pending voter approval.

Mayor John Ewing on Monday unveiled the design of the 275,000-square-foot facility between Cass and Chicago Streets, near 74th Street. It would be the first joint police-fire headquarters in the city’s modern history, officials said.

Omahans first would have to vote in November whether to approve bonding authority for the bulk of the cost. City officials said the bonds would not require a tax levy increase.

If all goes as Ewing and city officials hope, construction would start in early 2028 and the facility would open in 2030.

City officials said in a statement that the new complex would provide space for more than 300 public safety professionals and they  expect it to spur new investment and development in the area.

Omaha’s city council is to be asked to approve an agreement with Leo A Daly for continuing design work.

Among services to be based at the facility: investigative units, a forensic lab, emergency medical services support, a “real-time crime center,” fire prevention and public education programs. The structure would not serve as a police precinct or fire station.

Features of the complex include an auditorium, outdoor plaza to support community meetings, public exhibits, wellness spaces for staff and special public safety functions.

This story was published by Nebraska Examiner, an editorially independent newsroom providing a hard-hitting, daily flow of news. Read the original article: https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/omaha-unveils-vision-for-181m-public-safety-headquarters/