The City of Omaha Parks Department says the renovation of the lagoon and shoreline will start within the next few weeks.
Parks Director Brook Bench says the City has committed $1.8 million dollars for the project. That includes a $525,000 grant from Nebraska Environmental Trust and $100,000 from the Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District.
The money will be used to implement lagoon water quality improvements including dredging, installation of a new clay pond liner, and reconstruction of perimeter stone walls, shoreline protection and concrete walks around the lagoon perimeter.
In addition, bollard lighting along the lagoon will be replaced with LED fixtures and electrical system upgrades. All improvements are related to the lagoon renovation and will not result in new park facilities.
The project will begin with installation of security fencing to ensure the safety of the public during construction. Once installed, the lagoon will be drained and construction can begin.
The work is expected to take approximately 6-8 months to complete, weather permitting.
