Antelope Valley Project

This vitally important pillar within the 2015 Vision includes development of the newly configured Antelope Creek and its immediate environs as the waterway flows through the city at the eastern edge of downtown Lincoln. It includes the north-south expanse between O and Vine Streets. The project boasts a multitude of potential benefits to Lincoln and its citizens that will be discussed in this overview.

The Project’s Most Uncommon Trait
Unlike most of the elements of Vision 2015, Antelope Valley development is already well underway with some of the components nearing completion. Since the project’s origin grows out of flood control and transportation planning, the bulk of the funding comes from public sources.

Key federal, state, and city partnerships have made the infrastructure possible. Completion could be as early as 2009.

The private funding required for this effort to reach its full potential is small in comparison to the other pillars of 2015 Vision.

A New Park That Gives The Project Special Character
There exists tremendous opportunity for the city to turn this project into so much more than a flood control project. Perhaps the most exciting potential lies in the construction of East Downtown Lincoln Park along both shores of the waterway between O and R Streets.

Popularly referred to as “Lincoln’s Central Park,” it offers a myriad of benefits for its users. Currently envisioned components of the park include:

• Waterfall Fountain – Water from this fountain cascades over a series of retaining walls and collects at the base of the Fountain Jet.
• Big Slides – Fun for kids and adults, this is a chance to slide down the slope on the north end of the park.
• Amphitheater – Equipped with a concrete stage and retaining wall seating, this space is sure to be entertaining.
• Fountain Jet – A channel level, this fountain shoots several streams of water high into the air.
• Overlook Mound – this includes spiral paved walkway, plantings, and a fantastic view of the park.
• Water Wall Fountain – The soothing sound of water can be heard in the park from this street level fountain.
• Signature Fountain – Located at 21st and P Street, this large display fountain will be a prime new meeting point.
• Pedestrian Plaza – Colored concrete pavers adorn the street level entry to the park from 21st Street.
• 21st Street – Colored concrete pavers from sidewalk to park entrance on west side of 21st Street will brighten up this street designed to host community festivals.
• Trails – This park will be accessible via an extensive extension of the famous Lincoln trail system

The park will be a drawing place that serves the entire city (in the true spirit of a Central Park). It will be a special asset to employees and residents in the downtown area, UN-L constituents, and the city’s visitors.

Important Economic Drivers for the City
Serving as an important link to another key pillar of 2015 Vision, the park will be adjacent to the Antelope Valley Research Corridor. The corridor will allow UN-L to expand its already successful research programs to their full potential.

It is a hope and a strong probability that the park and waterway beautification efforts will prompt commercial development on the west side and an inviting neighborhood on the east side of the project. This will transform neighborhoods into desirable locations for residential and business expansion.

The Task Force and Its Priorities
An Antelope Valley Project task force has been established to work toward the successful completion of the plan. Its top priority is to identify private funding sources and supervise the solicitation of needed dollars. The task force will work in appropriate collaboration with:

• The City of Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department
• The Parks and Recreation Foundation
• Lincoln Cares
• The University of Nebraska Foundation
• The 2015 Vision Group
• Department of Roads
• Various federal, city, state, and private groups to be identified.

Evaluation of Success
Clearly the ultimate success of the efforts will be based on the completion of the total project and the citizenry’s assessment of its value. It also plays a catalyst role in the overall development of the entire 2015 Vision.