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Board approves Project Game On stadium and YMCA partnership for North High
Summary
Omaha Public Schools board approved a funding agreement with the Omaha Public Schools Foundation and community partners to build a new stadium and renovate facilities at North High School as part of Project Game On; board and donors said the project is fully funded and work will run through summer 2027.
The Omaha Public Schools Board of Education on April 21 approved a funding agreement with the Omaha Public Schools Foundation to build a new stadium and renovate facilities at North High School as part of a community-led Project Game On.
Superintendent Ray told the board the project — funded by private donors including the Lozier and Sherwood foundations and in partnership with the YMCA of Greater Omaha — will provide a community stadium, concessions, restrooms, team rooms and other amenities intended to support athletics, physical education and arts programs at North High. "Project Game On is taking shape thanks to generous funders," Ray said.
The board heard from Chief Operations Officer Charles Wakefield, who said the early project renderings show a community gathering site east of North High and estimated seating for up to 2,500 visitors. "This is game changing for North High and for North Omaha," Wakefield said. He told the board work is scheduled to begin this year and is expected to conclude in time for the 2027 football season.
Trey Brashear of the Lozier Foundation said the foundations see the work as "leveling the playing field" and described heavy community interest in the announcement; Tara Thomas, vice president of advancement for the YMCA of Greater Omaha, said the renovated Butler‑Gas YMCA will connect youth programs to the high‑school campus and create opportunities for children to envision future involvement with North High. Former North principal Gene Haines, who helped early student planning for the project, also addressed the board.
The motion to approve the funding agreement was moved and seconded, and the roll call returned eight ayes; the motion passed. Board members who spoke during discussion praised the public‑private partnership and said the facility will benefit students, athletic teams and the North Omaha neighborhood.
No eminent domain is involved, Wakefield said; donors provided land that made the project possible. Project organizers have launched a website and social channels to share renderings and frequently asked questions.
The board’s formal vote on the funding agreement was taken April 21. Work is expected to proceed in phases; Wakefield said more detailed timelines and outreach will follow as contractors are selected and schedules refined.
