Bellevue officials say water park project remains on schedule despite NDOT delay; second bond tranche planned

Harrison Johnson, Bellevue’s community development director, told the City Council on Jan. 20 that excavation and foundation work are underway at the Bellevue Waterpark and Entertainment District and that the project remains targeted for mid‑2027 completion.

Johnson said mass grading is complete and the basement for the main structure is being excavated. “We just need to keep those tariffs down as we get the stuff from Canada,” he added, describing continuing deliveries of rebar and structural components and saying crews upload daily photos for staff review.

On financing, Johnson said the city has spent roughly $30,000,000 of a $60,000,000 bond the council approved in June 2024 and intends to issue the second $30,000,000 tranche. He said the guaranteed maximum price agreement remains unchanged and that staff are pursuing cost‑saving measures, including potentially contracting directly with a slide vendor that could cut about $700,000 from costs.

Johnson identified a Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) right‑of‑way vacation as the primary external delay: “The NDOT right of way has taken a lot longer than we’ve wanted to for that vacation,” he said, and staff expect a contract on the matter to come forward to the council.

Council members asked about utilities and oversight. Johnson said utilities work is proceeding with the municipal utility district (MUD) and that Omaha Public Works and the city are coordinating on sewer ties. Jason, assistant finance director, explained a separate funding step for the fire department’s emergency medical transport Medicaid program that requires a local match but would release federal funds if approved; he said consultants estimate the city’s $130,000 contribution would yield roughly $180,000 in federal reimbursement, after a 10% consultant fee.

Why it matters: Bellevue is funding a large, multi‑year entertainment and water‑amenity project with city bonds and outside partners. Continued coordination with state agencies (NDOT), utility providers and the MUD will affect schedule and cost, and the council is actively reviewing procurement and funding options as work progresses.

Next steps: Johnson said the council should expect additional contract and easement items related to the entertainment district to appear on upcoming agendas for approvals and clarifications.