08/26/2026
OIPA ON THE ROAD | LEARNING FROM PORT KC
The OIPA team recently traveled to Kansas City for a firsthand look at how strategic investment, infrastructure, culture, housing, and economic development can come together to transform communities.
Our visit with Port KC took us across several catalytic projects, including the KC Riverfront and KC Current stadium area and surrounding mixed-use development, the Keystone Innovation District, development along the historic 18th & Vine corridor, streetscape improvements, and the innovative transformation of the Rock Island Bridge.
We also had an opportunity to visit the historic home of Sarah Rector in Kansas City’s original Jazz District…an important reminder that development should not only create what comes next, but also recognize and preserve the people, places, and stories that came before us.
Beyond the tours, our team engaged in meaningful conversations around Port KC’s operations, conduit bonding, housing incentives, public-private partnerships, and the tools that can help move transformational projects from vision to ex*****on.
Joining OIPA staff was District 2 Omaha City Councilwoman LaVonya Goodwin, who participated as both a City representative and member of OIPA’s Community Advisory Committee. Her participation helped strengthen the connection between our work, City priorities, and the communities we serve.
These trips are about more than seeing successful projects. They are about bringing ideas home, understanding what can be adapted for North Omaha, and continuing to build the relationships and knowledge necessary to turn opportunity into investment.
Real Investment. Real Change. Right now.
LaVonya Goodwin for City Council
