Public input sessions held during the development of the Benson-Ames Alliance plan evoked many a spirited discussion.
The Benson-Ames Alliance is a partnership of neighborhood and business associations, educational institutions, social service and civic organizations, community and religious leaders, developers and design professionals all working together to promote the area’s economic and social vitality.
Its mission is to spur revitalization of the Benson-Ames area by encouraging both public and private investment while seeing to it that new development respects the historic, distinctive character of the community.
The alliance was formed in September 2005 by a consortium of the City of Omaha, researchers from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, the Neighborhood Center for Greater Omaha, Omaha by Design and – most importantly – residents, business owners and others from the alliance area. With the aid of a team of urban design consultants and a community advisory committee, the Benson-Ames Alliance held a series of public meetings over the course of five months in early 2006, during which a clear vision for the community’s future emerged.
In September 2006, the Benson-Ames Alliance released a master plan for the area that formally explained this vision, identifying opportunities for new development and beautification while providing guidelines for such development. Now, the alliance is focused on the task of implementing the plan. To lead these efforts, a steering council composed of former advisory committee members and other representatives of neighborhood associations, civic organizations and businesses has formed.
The Benson-Ames Alliance Steering Council is charged with seeking out development and investment opportunities as well as providing oversight of such activities in the community’s interest. Most importantly, it is responsible for the governance of the Benson-Ames Alliance.
Like all community organizations, the Benson-Ames Alliance is a work in progress, and its success depends upon the active involvement of the citizens who comprise it. Related links Benson-Ames Alliance Donors Benson-Ames Alliance Fact Sheet
