18 acres along Abbott Drive to include mixed-use development
Alliance Sports announced its plans for an innovative, state-of-the-art soccer stadium for Union Omaha. Positioned as the centerpiece of an extensive $300 million, 18-acre mixed-use project along Abbott Drive, the construction of the stadium with hard cost of $60 million is poised to start construction in the Fall of 2024, with doors opening to the public in the Spring of 2026. This strategic initiative not only aims to invigorate economic growth but also contributes to the dynamic evolution of downtown Omaha. Additionally, the project is actively pursuing legislation inclusion in the Sports Arena Facility Financing Assistance Act, anticipating a cumulative support of $25 million for the stadium project over 20 years.
The key components of the initial development plan include:
- Soccer Stadium – A 7,000-seat soccer stadium serving as the new home for Union Omaha, Nebraska’s only professional soccer team. Plans include adding a women’s soccer team in the future.
- Residential Units – Approximately 330 residential units, comprising a mix of apartments and townhomes, contributing to the urban living experience within the district.
- Retail Space – A significant retail component of around 100,000 square feet, providing diverse shopping and dining options for residents and visitors.
- Hotel – An approximately 140-key hotel, enhancing the area’s hospitality offerings and catering to the needs of the growing community.
“The development planned by Alliance Sports is another commitment we all have to downtown Omaha and our urban core,” said Mayor Jean Stothert. “It will create additional opportunities for business and talent recruitment, tourism, conventions and meeting bookings, and youth sports events, growing our reputation as a sports competition and event destination that promotes Omaha to a national audience.”
An economic impact study conducted in 2021 projected the stadium would have a $99 million impact on the State of Nebraska and $168 Million to the City of Omaha from the stadium alone. The surrounding development is expected to further contribute with a projected $200 million impact and the creation of 450 new jobs.
“This district will help add to the exciting development already happening in downtown Omaha,” said Gary Green, co-founder of Alliance Sports. “It falls in line with the Chamber’s Urban Core Strategic Plan for bringing economic development and jobs to the heart of the city and we are very excited to see it moving forward.”
Union Omaha is currently playing matches at Werner Park in Papillion, sharing the park with the Omaha Storm Chasers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. Having the new stadium will allow expansion of the sport of soccer with the future addition of a women’s soccer team and a youth academy.
“This project will move professional soccer forward in Omaha and across the state,” said Martie Cordaro, Union Omaha President. “We anticipate 150 to 200 events a year will take place in the district including 20+ Union Omaha pro soccer matches, 15+ women’s team soccer matches, 20+ high school/college soccer matches, and 100+ community events for everyone to enjoy.”
Alliance Sports invites residents and visitors alike to look forward to a dynamic district that not only enhances the sports and entertainment landscape but also brings about substantial economic benefits and job opportunities.
About Alliance Sports
Alliance Sports, founded in 2008 by Gary Green and Larry Botel, owns and operates the Omaha Storm Chasers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals; the Richmond Flying Squirrels, the San Francisco Giant’s Double-A affiliate; the Montgomery Biscuits, the Tampa Bay Rays’ Double-A affiliate; and Union Omaha, a USL League One team. Alliance Sports also owns the digital platform and publication Baseball America Magazine.
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