A local developer is pitching a 62-acre mixed-use entertainment district next to Werner Park, home of the Omaha Storm Chasers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League).
Developer Jerry Torczon envisions an entertainment complex containing bars, restaurants and retail next to the ballpark in suburban Papillion, NE. He’s already received initial approval from the Papillion Planning Commission to pursue the project, which would be located east and south of the ballpark on current farmland. Werner Park had once been envisioned as the impetus for further development in the area, and this proposal fulfills some of that vision. From AP:
Martie Cordaro is the president and general manager of the Storm Chasers minor league baseball team. He said the 2018 season brought nearly 346,000 fans to the ballpark. Come next spring, Omaha’s professional soccer team will also play at the stadium, bringing its fans to the area.
Cordaro noted he’s excited about the prospect of any developments that complement the success of the Storm Chasers.
“We’ve been eager to be a part of (developments near Werner Park) dating back to 2009, when we agreed to permanently keep Triple-A baseball here in the metro area.”