Citing age and wear on the playground and surrounding spaces, City of Omaha Parks & Recreation (OPR) has deemed Lake James Park in North Omaha a high-priority park for improvements.
As they prepare for a complete renovation of the park beginning in spring 2027, officials are asking for public input on what residents would like to see included in the project.
“We recognize the importance that this park plays in the neighborhood and want it to be a safe and vibrant space that is continuously enjoyed by all,” reads an intro to the survey that OPR is encouraging residents to take part in before the Sept. 21 deadline.
Comments on OPR’s Facebook page emphasized the playground’s importance due to its proximity to multiple schools.
The renovation will center on a full replacement of the existing playground, with other planned improvements including new rubber safety surfacing, picnic tables, benches, and trash cans.
The survey shows renderings of a potential playground structure and asks respondents to write in their thoughts about it. However, OPR emphasizes that no final decisions have been made regarding designs or what will be included.
The survey also shows a rendering of musical equipment that could potentially be included in the project, including a large, colorful xylophone attached to an acoustic horn amplifier.
The ballfield on the northern end of the park will be preserved and protected for play throughout the construction period, according to OPR.
The existing basketball court is located inside the redevelopment area. OPR’s survey asks respondents to choose their priority for what they’d like to see added, ranking four options: a new playground, a new basketball court, new picnic shelters, or improved walking paths.
With construction scheduled to begin in spring 2027, it’s unclear how long the project is expected to take. Alternate options for outdoor recreation nearby during the construction include Fontenelle Park to the northeast and Gallagher Park to the west.
Fill out the survey here before Monday, Sept. 21, to have your voice heard. If you have questions regarding the project, you can contact Katie Swanson at park.planning@cityofomaha.org.
