The Duo (222 S 15 ST) formerly Central Park Plaza

[Greg S]

Do we still think we will also get a high rise at the library site? Could it be something shorter?

Greg

[Omaha Cowboy]

So is the Apex considered an addition to Central Park Plaza or a new/separate structure altogether (albeit connected to the twins)?

They’re adding a 3rd tower, 17 stories tall, right in between the twin 15 story “red” towers that are currently in place..and all 3 towers will be connected..So it’s an addition and the property will be renamed “Apex”..

As it relates to a tower on the library site, yes..that is the rumored plan. The city owns the property where the W Dale Clark currently stands- it is to be demolished next year..and the city has indicated they want a significant, skyline enhancing tower on that site (see the mayors presser from last Wednesday)…

Ciao..LiO…Peace

[Linkin5]

Wait, so is this addition to Central Park building one of the rumored towers you have been talking about? Or is that completely separate on the library site?

[Doctor Fate]

So is the Apex considered an addition to Central Park Plaza or a new/separate structure altogether (albeit connected to the twins)?

They’re adding a 3rd tower, 17 stories tall, right in between the twin 15 story “red” towers that are currently in place..and all 3 towers will be connected..So it’s an addition and the property will be renamed “Apex”..

Oh ok. So it is all considered one building.

Wait, so is this addition to Central Park building one of the rumored towers you have been talking about? Or is that completely separate on the library site?

The Apex is separate from the library site tower rumors. The library site tower is expected to be 15-20 stories and then the block east of the library is rumored to have a smaller, stepped up tower.

[ita]

Wait, so is this addition to Central Park building one of the rumored towers you have been talking about? Or is that completely separate on the library site?

The Apex is separate from the library site tower rumors. The library site tower is expected to be 15-20 stories and then the block east of the library is rumored to have a smaller, stepped up tower.

That and the article stated that this addition is speculative, not for being built for someone specifically. It seems that the rumors tied to the library site and Lanoha properties for built to spec.

[nebport5]

So is the Apex considered an addition to Central Park Plaza or a new/separate structure altogether (albeit connected to the twins)?

From the latest update to the planning board..."This redevelopment project will consist of a renovation of the two existing towers as well as an addition of a newly-constructed third, 80,000 SF tower between the existing structures which will link the two separate towers together."

[Omaha Cowboy]

So is the Apex considered an addition to Central Park Plaza or a new/separate structure altogether (albeit connected to the twins)?

They’re adding a 3rd tower, 17 stories tall, right in between the twin 15 story “red” towers that are currently in place..and all 3 towers will be connected..So it’s an addition and the property will be renamed “Apex”..

Oh ok. So it is all considered one building.

Wait, so is this addition to Central Park building one of the rumored towers you have been talking about? Or is that completely separate on the library site?

The Apex is separate from the library site tower rumors. The library site tower is expected to be 15-20 stories and then the block east of the library is rumored to have a smaller, stepped up tower.

It’s 3 towers, all connected, on the same property..which will be renamed Apex..

And you’re correct regarding the rumored tower to be built on the Library site. Taking my queues from the mayors press conference last Wednesday, I believe the tower development on this site will happen. Hopefully we’ll hear an announcement for this relatively soon…

Ciao..LiO…Peace

[Vitruvius]

OWH details.



https://omaha.com/business/local/105-mi ... er_OWHnews

Now another business tower — stretching 17 stories and covered in glass — is to be wedged between the original two buildings that make up Central Park Plaza at 15th and Douglas Streets.

The new addition will rise a couple of floors higher than the towers on either side and will link them all together, in effect creating a unified structure with larger floor plates that the owner believes will attract more tenants.

The overall office complex will grow about 80,000 square feet to about 570,000 square feet. In addition, systems and existing building space are to be updated. New landscaping and sidewalk features would surround the complex. At least one street-level retailer will be added, along with an upper-floor lounge.

The complex will be renamed: the Apex.

Even with cost considerations and a goal to increase revenue by increasing square footage, the make-over design would benefit from some choices to lighten the visual weight, increase the illusion of height, and add some grace and finish to the top. No logos, no names, let the architecture stand on it's own and become a recognizable landmark.

[buildomaha]

OWH details.



https://omaha.com/business/local/105-mi ... er_OWHnews

Now another business tower — stretching 17 stories and covered in glass — is to be wedged between the original two buildings that make up Central Park Plaza at 15th and Douglas Streets.

The new addition will rise a couple of floors higher than the towers on either side and will link them all together, in effect creating a unified structure with larger floor plates that the owner believes will attract more tenants.

The overall office complex will grow about 80,000 square feet to about 570,000 square feet. In addition, systems and existing building space are to be updated. New landscaping and sidewalk features would surround the complex. At least one street-level retailer will be added, along with an upper-floor lounge.

The complex will be renamed: the Apex.

Even with cost considerations and a goal to increase revenue by increasing square footage, the make-over design would benefit from some choices to lighten the visual weight, increase the illusion of height, and add some grace and finish to the top. No logos, no names, let the architecture stand on it's own and become a recognizable landmark.

I agree with this suggestion! I wish they would have emphasized the addition’s height more than they have in the current design.

[GetUrban]

OWH details.



https://omaha.com/business/local/105-mi ... er_OWHnews

Now another business tower — stretching 17 stories and covered in glass — is to be wedged between the original two buildings that make up Central Park Plaza at 15th and Douglas Streets.

The new addition will rise a couple of floors higher than the towers on either side and will link them all together, in effect creating a unified structure with larger floor plates that the owner believes will attract more tenants.

The overall office complex will grow about 80,000 square feet to about 570,000 square feet. In addition, systems and existing building space are to be updated. New landscaping and sidewalk features would surround the complex. At least one street-level retailer will be added, along with an upper-floor lounge.

The complex will be renamed: the Apex.

Even with cost considerations and a goal to increase revenue by increasing square footage, the make-over design would benefit from some choices to lighten the visual weight, increase the illusion of height, and add some grace and finish to the top. No logos, no names, let the architecture stand on it's own and become a recognizable landmark.

I agree with this suggestion! I wish they would have emphasized the addition’s height more than they have in the current design.

I hope they stick with their latest design. This proposed “Gothic” enhancement reminds me of something you’d see in the next sequel to Disney’s Frozen.

[Vitruvius]

some other ideas

[Vitruvius]

OWH details.



https://omaha.com/business/local/105-mi ... er_OWHnews

Now another business tower — stretching 17 stories and covered in glass — is to be wedged between the original two buildings that make up Central Park Plaza at 15th and Douglas Streets.

The new addition will rise a couple of floors higher than the towers on either side and will link them all together, in effect creating a unified structure with larger floor plates that the owner believes will attract more tenants.

The overall office complex will grow about 80,000 square feet to about 570,000 square feet. In addition, systems and existing building space are to be updated. New landscaping and sidewalk features would surround the complex. At least one street-level retailer will be added, along with an upper-floor lounge.

The complex will be renamed: the Apex.

Even with cost considerations and a goal to increase revenue by increasing square footage, the make-over design would benefit from some choices to lighten the visual weight, increase the illusion of height, and add some grace and finish to the top. No logos, no names, let the architecture stand on it's own and become a recognizable landmark.

I agree with this suggestion! I wish they would have emphasized the addition’s height more than they have in the current design.

I hope they stick with their latest design. This proposed “Gothic” enhancement reminds me of something you’d see in the next sequel to Disney’s Frozen.

Nothing wrong with a little Gothic flair.

[GetUrban]

OWH details.



https://omaha.com/business/local/105-mi ... er_OWHnews

Now another business tower — stretching 17 stories and covered in glass — is to be wedged between the original two buildings that make up Central Park Plaza at 15th and Douglas Streets.

The new addition will rise a couple of floors higher than the towers on either side and will link them all together, in effect creating a unified structure with larger floor plates that the owner believes will attract more tenants.

The overall office complex will grow about 80,000 square feet to about 570,000 square feet. In addition, systems and existing building space are to be updated. New landscaping and sidewalk features would surround the complex. At least one street-level retailer will be added, along with an upper-floor lounge.

The complex will be renamed: the Apex.

Even with cost considerations and a goal to increase revenue by increasing square footage, the make-over design would benefit from some choices to lighten the visual weight, increase the illusion of height, and add some grace and finish to the top. No logos, no names, let the architecture stand on it's own and become a recognizable landmark.

I agree with this suggestion! I wish they would have emphasized the addition’s height more than they have in the current design.

I hope they stick with their latest design. This proposed “Gothic” enhancement reminds me of something you’d see in the next sequel to Disney’s Frozen.

Nothing wrong with a little Gothic flair.

I give you a lot of credit for trying it out to see what some Neo-gothic flair might look like. There have been some good Neo-gothic designs in the past such as the PPG center…

[nativeomahan]

My response to this proposal: How very Omaha.

[ita]

I appreciate the discussion on the current design of the property. I am neither hate nor love it. It's fine, and I think the rendering does not provide enough detail for me to decide. I will wait and see how this one actually looks in person.

Notwithstanding, this is the first new high rise (I am counting this as a 3rd tower on the site) in downtown since the second Riverfront Condo tower in 2011, or if we're just talking CBD, UP in 2004. I feel like this is a big deal for downtown!

[Athomsfere]

I appreciate the discussion on the current design of the property. I am neither hate nor love it. It's fine, and I think the rendering does not provide enough detail for me to decide. I will wait and see how this one actually looks in person.

Notwithstanding, this is the first new high rise (I am counting this as a 3rd tower on the site) in downtown since the second Riverfront Condo tower in 2011, or if we're just talking CBD, UP in 2004. I feel like this is a big deal for downtown!

How very optimistic

I agree overall. I see some things I'd rather see with it: More separation from the existing towers, maybe a little more height... Overall though. I like this rendering. And it's happening where Omaha likely needs it the most: strong infill.

[ita]

I appreciate the discussion on the current design of the property. I am neither hate nor love it. It's fine, and I think the rendering does not provide enough detail for me to decide. I will wait and see how this one actually looks in person.

Notwithstanding, this is the first new high rise (I am counting this as a 3rd tower on the site) in downtown since the second Riverfront Condo tower in 2011, or if we're just talking CBD, UP in 2004. I feel like this is a big deal for downtown!

How very optimistic

I agree overall. I see some things I'd rather see with it: More separation from the existing towers, maybe a little more height... Overall though. I like this rendering. And it's happening where Omaha likely needs it the most: strong infill.

I have only been on the forum for a few years, but there has been nothing that gets people going like a high rise rumor. We have something concrete with the Apex, and the reception has been, at best, lukewarm. It's fine, the design isn't for everyone, but I think the implications of someone making a big investment in a downtown high rise is a good sign, especially with a few other rumors floating around for more high rises. For myself, I am celebrating this project. It will be exciting to see this and the UNMC admin building coming up at the same time; when was the last time we had two high rises under construction at the same time?

[Garrett]

I appreciate the discussion on the current design of the property. I am neither hate nor love it. It's fine, and I think the rendering does not provide enough detail for me to decide. I will wait and see how this one actually looks in person.

Notwithstanding, this is the first new high rise (I am counting this as a 3rd tower on the site) in downtown since the second Riverfront Condo tower in 2011, or if we're just talking CBD, UP in 2004. I feel like this is a big deal for downtown!

How very optimistic

I agree overall. I see some things I'd rather see with it: More separation from the existing towers, maybe a little more height... Overall though. I like this rendering. And it's happening where Omaha likely needs it the most: strong infill.

I have only been on the forum for a few years, but there has been nothing that gets people going like a high rise rumor. We have something concrete with the Apex, and the reception has been, at best, lukewarm.

Actually it looks like the addition is mostly glass, not concrete.

[GetUrban]

I appreciate the discussion on the current design of the property. I am neither hate nor love it. It's fine, and I think the rendering does not provide enough detail for me to decide. I will wait and see how this one actually looks in person.

Notwithstanding, this is the first new high rise (I am counting this as a 3rd tower on the site) in downtown since the second Riverfront Condo tower in 2011, or if we're just talking CBD, UP in 2004. I feel like this is a big deal for downtown!

How very optimistic

I agree overall. I see some things I'd rather see with it: More separation from the existing towers, maybe a little more height... Overall though. I like this rendering. And it's happening where Omaha likely needs it the most: strong infill.

More separation between the towers is the main thing they are trying to get rid of with this proposal. The whole idea is to make larger contiguous floor plates on each floor.

[GetUrban]

My response to this proposal: How very Omaha.

What exactly is that supposed to mean?

[ita]

I appreciate the discussion on the current design of the property. I am neither hate nor love it. It's fine, and I think the rendering does not provide enough detail for me to decide. I will wait and see how this one actually looks in person.

Notwithstanding, this is the first new high rise (I am counting this as a 3rd tower on the site) in downtown since the second Riverfront Condo tower in 2011, or if we're just talking CBD, UP in 2004. I feel like this is a big deal for downtown!

How very optimistic

I agree overall. I see some things I'd rather see with it: More separation from the existing towers, maybe a little more height... Overall though. I like this rendering. And it's happening where Omaha likely needs it the most: strong infill.

I have only been on the forum for a few years, but there has been nothing that gets people going like a high rise rumor. We have something concrete with the Apex, and the reception has been, at best, lukewarm.

Actually it looks like the addition is mostly glass, not concrete.

Nice. Haha.

[nativeomahan]

My response to this proposal: How very Omaha.

What exactly is that supposed to mean?

I think it’s pretty self evident.

[GetUrban]

My response to this proposal: How very Omaha.

What exactly is that supposed to mean?

I think it’s pretty self evident.

Going to BK instead of McDs, I assume.

[Mapguy]

What bugs me most about this proposal is TIF. Why do they need TIF??? They are literally at the foot of a 300 million dollar park being built on other people's dime and they are going to the city hat in hand for more?

The building was TIFd for 20 years and has been off for 5 and now they want to TIF it again for 20 more? Taking a class B office to Class A doesnt really benefit the city if by the time the TIF is paid off the office space naturally dilapidates back into class B----which it will over 20 years.

Everyone complains about how high taxes are on their homes---maybe if the city would grow a spine and say no to this kind of corporate welfare we would all be better off with a wider more equitable base valuation. The project should stand on its own with private dollars only.

[Vitruvius]

What bugs me most about this proposal is TIF. Why do they need TIF??? They are literally at the foot of a 300 million dollar park being built on other people's dime and they are going to the city hat in hand for more?

The building was TIFd for 20 years and has been off for 5 and now they want to TIF it again for 20 more? Taking a class B office to Class A doesnt really benefit the city if by the time the TIF is paid off the office space naturally dilapidates back into class B----which it will over 20 years.

Everyone complains about how high taxes are on their homes---maybe if the city would grow a spine and say no to this kind of corporate welfare we would all be better off with a wider more equitable base valuation. The project should stand on its own with private dollars only.

Completely agree!
Unfortunately, I don't think many people understand TIF, but what you said really hits the nail on the head.

[OmahaJaysCU]

I made the same comment with the con Agra development. That project was TIFed 30 years ago and now we’re TIFing it again.

Don’t get me wrong, I am a proponent of TIF, but this is not right IMO.

[Vitruvius]

TIF has a place, but the not when it's handed out like Mardi Gras tokens.

[Mapguy]

I mean the building has only been TIFFd twice since 1984. Its been on the full tax rolls for at least 6 years out of 37. Maybe a 3rd TIFF is the charm to keep this building as class A?

Im sure this is a win on paper for the Omaha Planning department. A real pyrrhic victory for the general fund and schools.

[Garrett]

I mean the building has only been TIFFd twice since 1984. Its been on the full tax rolls for at least 6 years out of 37. Maybe a 3rd TIFF is the charm to keep this building as class A?

Im sure this is a win on paper for the Omaha Planning department. A real pyrrhic victory for the general fund and schools.

TIF doesn't take a property off the tax rolls entirely, it just sets it so the increase in tax valuation is used to pay for the TIF loan. Whatever the building is valued at now will still be taxed into the general fund.

[TransitOriented]

I don't think this specific development needs any TIF funds, but the developer would be dumb not to apply for it. If the city has a habit of handing it out to anyone who applies, then you should apply.

Don't hate the game, hate the government officials who are allowing this.

[Omaha Cowboy]

I don't think this specific development needs any TIF funds, but the developer would be dumb not to apply for it. If the city has a habit of handing it out to anyone who applies, then you should apply.

Don't hate the game, hate the government officials who are allowing this.

I don’t disagree with this take…

Ciao..LiO…Peace

[jheard15]

I only have low level understanding of TIF, but my questions would be:

1) Would the project happen without TIF?
2) Who or what is negatively affected by TIF?

Would anyone really say Con Agra or some of the other TIF projects weren't worth it even though they're gone now?

I think Omaha and the state of Nebraska are in trouble over the next 10- 20 years. We've lost major employers over the last few years and haven't replaced them and I don't see anything on the horizon. Google/Facebook data centers and Amazon distribution centers aren't major employers. Seems like all the big buildings along Dodge are occupied by staffing companies. InfoUSA (now Data Axle) sold their building and has everyone working remote. Once Uncle Warren dies, Berkshire's operations will move.

It's concerning to say the least. I'm a lifelong resident who has always loved Omaha. But I'm 45 and my kids will be out of the house in 3 years. I'll be surprised if we stay. We just sold our house and will rent for the time being. At my age, I can't justify another 30 year mortgage where 1/3 of the payment goes to property taxes.

[NEDodger]

I only have low level understanding of TIF, but my questions would be:

1) Would the project happen without TIF?
2) Who or what is negatively affected by TIF?

Would anyone really say Con Agra or some of the other TIF projects weren't worth it even though they're gone now?

I think Omaha and the state of Nebraska are in trouble over the next 10- 20 years. We've lost major employers over the last few years and haven't replaced them and I don't see anything on the horizon. Google/Facebook data centers and Amazon distribution centers aren't major employers. Seems like all the big buildings along Dodge are occupied by staffing companies. InfoUSA (now Data Axle) sold their building and has everyone working remote. Once Uncle Warren dies, Berkshire's operations will move.

It's concerning to say the least. I'm a lifelong resident who has always loved Omaha. But I'm 45 and my kids will be out of the house in 3 years. I'll be surprised if we stay. We just sold our house and will rent for the time being. At my age, I can't justify another 30 year mortgage where 1/3 of the payment goes to property taxes.

We can't fulfill the jobs we have now - I'm not necessarily worried about new companies not coming here.

Berkshire isn't going anywhere - that was the reason to get Suzie added onto the Board of Directors.

[PotatoeEatsFish]

I only have low level understanding of TIF, but my questions would be:

1) Would the project happen without TIF?
2) Who or what is negatively affected by TIF?

Would anyone really say Con Agra or some of the other TIF projects weren't worth it even though they're gone now?

I think Omaha and the state of Nebraska are in trouble over the next 10- 20 years. We've lost major employers over the last few years and haven't replaced them and I don't see anything on the horizon. Google/Facebook data centers and Amazon distribution centers aren't major employers. Seems like all the big buildings along Dodge are occupied by staffing companies. InfoUSA (now Data Axle) sold their building and has everyone working remote. Once Uncle Warren dies, Berkshire's operations will move.

It's concerning to say the least. I'm a lifelong resident who has always loved Omaha. But I'm 45 and my kids will be out of the house in 3 years. I'll be surprised if we stay. We just sold our house and will rent for the time being. At my age, I can't justify another 30 year mortgage where 1/3 of the payment goes to property taxes.

We can't fulfill the jobs we have now - I'm not necessarily worried about new companies not coming here.

Berkshire isn't going anywhere - that was the reason to get Suzie added onto the Board of Directors.

I was just wondering what will happen to that office when Buffett passes away. He obviously does not want to leave that office in his life but I wonder if the new heads will grow tired of the aging space.

[CBJason]

So, since there is now the MoO announcement, has anyone heard of any updates about this project? Didn't know if the new high rise would deter the new owners from whatever their original intent was...

[nebport5]

So, since there is now the MoO announcement, has anyone heard of any updates about this project? Didn't know if the new high rise would deter the new owners from whatever their original intent was...

I doubt anything will change. City Ventures had to know what was likely to come. Even before the tif was approved here the rumors were rampant about something very tall going into the library lot.

[Brad]

It was mentioned in another Thread, Toast moved to Aksarben and Markel is moving to 136th and Dodge. Who does that leave in these buildings?

[ita]

I believe Markel is moving to 138th & Dodge as well. Both buildings should be largely vacant.

What does this mean for Central Park Plaza? With the third tower project dead, major tenants leaving, what's the plan?

[Omaha Cowboy]

I believe Markel is moving to 138th & Dodge as well. Both buildings should be largely vacant.

What does this mean for Central Park Plaza? With the third tower project dead, major tenants leaving, what's the plan?

Doubtful anyone knows at this point..

But I do know, Markel looking into moving to another Omaha area location.. is something they’re discussing internally…

Ciao..LiO…Peace

[Cermak]

These buildings have had many tenants come and go over the years, ConAgra and First National Bank to name a few. They contain about 400,000 sq ft so this is a good size complex. I noticed today the Toast signage is gone. Hopefully they will get new occupants soon. Even though they will be losing the GLM view they are still in the heart of DT.