Pictured from left to right: Gary Person, President/CEO, North Platte Area Chamber & Development; Micaela Wuehler, Chair of Lincoln County Commissioners; Brandon Kelliher, Mayor of North Platte; Cassie Condon, Vice President of Operations, North Platte Area Chamber & Development
Community Sees Rapid Growth in Agri-Business, Housing, and Retail Sectors
NORTH PLATTE, NE — The City of North Platte has achieved a major economic milestone, surpassing $2 billion in new development since 2020 through strategic investments in infrastructure, housing, agri-business, and retail. This unprecedented growth has helped create more than 1,000 new jobs, 1,200 housing units, and 60 new retail businesses over the past five years.
This week, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) announced the city’s recertification as an Economic Development Certified Community (EDCC), recognizing North Platte’s ongoing leadership and commitment to long-term economic advancement. The certification was presented on November 4, honoring city officials, members of the North Platte Area Chamber and Development Corporation, and the Lincoln County Commissioners. North Platte first earned EDCC status in 2011, with recertifications in 2015 and 2020.
“We have seen remarkable progress here, which has launched our community into a new era of development that should carry on for generations.” — Gary Person, Executive Director, North Platte Area Chamber and Development Corporation
Transformational Growth Across Sectors
Since 2020, North Platte has experienced steady increases in construction, retail sales, lodging revenues, and property valuations, coupled with reductions in local tax levies. These combined efforts have accelerated economic momentum and strengthened investor confidence.
A major highlight includes the redevelopment of the city’s former Platte River Mall into the vibrant District 177, which added 94 new housing units and attracted a wave of new retail tenants. Downtown revitalization projects, totaling $3 million in public infrastructure improvements, have enhanced historic façades, removed aged awnings, and contributed to the rebranding of downtown as the Canteen District—a tribute to North Platte’s celebrated World War II hospitality. The area is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been designated a Certified Creative District by the Nebraska Arts Council.
Major Business and Industrial Investments
Economic expansion has been bolstered by the launch of Sustainable Beef’s new independent processing plant, which opened in May. The facility—supported in part by a minority partnership with Walmart, Inc.—employs up to 950 workers and processes 1,500 head of cattle daily.
In the Twin Rivers Business Park, development continues to thrive with 14 new businesses, including an Amazon Distribution Center, while Murphy Tractor and Equipment recently completed a $12 million expansion.
Housing Initiatives Strengthen Workforce Retention
To support workforce growth, North Platte has approved 20 new housing projects totaling up to 2,400 residential units, with 700 already completed or under construction. The Chamber’s “Shot in the Arm” housing incentive program, launched in 2015, has directly supported the creation of 511 new homes.
“As we create opportunities for new and expanding businesses to succeed, employers will continue to rely on safe and affordable housing for our growing workforce.”
— Brandon Kelliher, Mayor of North Platte
Infrastructure and Transportation Development
North Platte continues to expand its industrial infrastructure, with the state’s first approved Rural Projects Act industrial rail park under development near Hershey. Supported by the Nebraska Legislature and Union Pacific Railroad, the site will include a transloading facility, drop-and-pull yard, and industrial development lots.
Lincoln County was also designated as one of Nebraska’s five Inland Port Authorities, paving the way for enhanced multimodal transportation and business distribution opportunities. In addition, a $30 million terminal project at the North Platte Municipal Airport is now underway.
Investments in Education and Recreation
Efforts to enhance quality of life include the expansion of Mid-Plains Community College’s Health and Science Center, a new electrical technology facility, and an expanded nursing partnership with Great Plains Health—the region’s second-largest employer. Great Plains Health has also completed a $30 million primary care center, $6.8 million neurosurgery center, and sports medicine therapy complex.
A $55 million recreational center and sports complex is also under construction, featuring a new aquatic center, pickleball and tennis courts, skate park, and walking trails.
Recognized for Statewide Excellence
North Platte’s dedication to growth and innovation has earned statewide recognition, including being named the Nebraska Diplomats’ Economic Development Community of the Year (2023) and the Governor’s Showcase Community (2021).
“Forward-thinking, state-level leadership continues to support our efforts to establish long-term growth in North Platte and Lincoln County,” Person said. “We’re proud of how far we’ve come—and even more excited about where we’re headed.”
About the Economic Development Certified Community (EDCC) Program
Launched in 2005 by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development and Nebraska Diplomats, the EDCC program recognizes communities for their readiness to attract and support new industries. Each certified community must demonstrate strategic planning, community marketing, available sites and buildings, and strong local incentives.
For More Information:
Ashley Rice-Gerlach
Economic Development Certified Community Program Coordinator
Nebraska Department of Economic Development
308-655-0919
ashley.gerlach@nebraska.gov
https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/programs/community/edcc/
