North Omaha Residents Signed Stadium Construction Beams

Community members participated in a beam-signing ceremony for the upcoming Gene R. Hayes Stadium and YMCA project.

Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Philanthropy

A close-up of a raw steel I-beam on a construction site illuminated by warm golden-hour sunlight.
North Omaha residents participated in a beam-signing ceremony this week for the upcoming $50 million Gene R. Hayes Stadium and YMCA project. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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North Omaha residents gathered to sign construction beams that will form the framework of the new Gene R. Hayes Stadium and YMCA. This $50 million initiative is designed to bolster youth development and public health in the area.

Why it matters

The facility is intended to provide long-term access to essential wellness and educational infrastructure. By supporting North High, the project aims to increase student engagement and community health opportunities.

The project is backed by a total investment exceeding $50 million, all sourced from private and local foundations. The new YMCA facility will encompass 39,000 square feet of dedicated space for community health and fitness.

The players

Gene R. Hayes

He is a former principal and coach at North High School who serves as the namesake for the new stadium and YMCA.

North High School

It is the local educational institution that will see expanded athletic and engagement opportunities through this development.

The details

The site will feature a gymnasium, an indoor pool, dedicated exercise spaces, community rooms, and a walking track. Named after a former North High principal and coach, the site will support athletic and school engagement when finished.

Timeline

  1. October 3, 2026: Neighbors signed construction beams at the site.

  2. Fall 2027: Facilities expected to be completed.

Market Landscape

This project follows the pattern of private philanthropy filling gaps in public recreational infrastructure for urban schools. It highlights the growing reliance on private-sector capital to modernize and expand aging community health assets in North Omaha.

Residents can anticipate improved access to local exercise facilities and a modernized stadium for school sports once construction concludes. The project provides these resources to the neighborhood without the use of taxpayer funds.

The takeaway

The focus on private funding models demonstrates how communities can secure major infrastructure improvements through non-governmental partnerships. Residents should prepare for enhanced access to athletic programs that align with regional health and education initiatives.

Further reading

Learn more about local efforts by browsing our Philanthropy section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by KMTV 3 News Now Omaha.

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Would you attend community events or use resources at new local sports and wellness facilities?