Council Bluffs is moving forward with a plan to develop the Playland Park neighborhood just across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. But it is not the original plan. The changes are designed to keep the plan current with development trends.
For little Kinley, the Playland Park neighborhood is the best place to go for a walk with her parents. For her, it is about the sights and sounds. It's not so different for her parents.
"I like the city view, it kind of feels like you're getting away from the small town, but not such a big city at the same time and I like the bridge and she likes it, too," says Stephanie Fox.
While Stephanie and Justin love to bring their daughter to the Playland Park area for walks, it is not someplace they would like to call home. The family likes its rural home.
Interest in the Bluffs side of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is booming. The plans have not changed dramatically. On the wet side of the levy there will still be River's Edge Park. On the dry side of the levy it will be a mixture of single family homes, apartments, condos as well as some light commercial, but none of the plans have been finalized yet.
Apartments on the south end, single family homes to match the surrounding area on the north and condos on the west side of the property. "We feel the best opportunity for that is right on the levy overlooking the new park that is being constructed overlooking Omaha, the city of Omaha skyline," says developer Don Gross.
Council Bluffs still has to meet with developers, but could see projects being started by next summer. Gross says minor changes in the plan reflect a stronger desire for multi-family dwellings, namely apartments and condos.
Planners would like to see some commercial property on the ground floor with residences above.
