After years of surveys, discussion, and planning, along with plenty of due diligence from the City Council and Administration, the Bellevue City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday evening to approve the bonds necessary to bring a large indoor/outdoor water park to the Bellevue community. The City Council also voted unanimously to approve a contract with American Resort Management for design and construction services.
In recent surveys and studies, the need for family entertainment options in Bellevue has ranked as a great need for our community. There are limited opportunities for area residents to enjoy aquatic recreation for all ages without having to travel long distances. Mayor Hike, City Administrator Jim Ristow, the Bellevue City Council along with the City's management team have recognized that need and are excited to bring this project to the Bellevue/Offutt Community. This attraction will be one of the largest tourist attractions in the State of Nebraska and has the potential to open as one of the top 10 waterparks in the country.
This 100,000sq foot indoor/outdoor waterpark facility will be built as part of an Entertainment District near the Highway 34 and Highway 75 intersection. It will be open year-round and is conservatively projected to bring 400,000 visitors to our community annually from a 250-mile radius. In order to serve the aquatic needs of our community, there will be discounts for local residents and seasonal youth programs as well. The facility will include a full restaurant and bar along with attached lodging options and family friendly activities such as an arcade and game areas as well.
The approved bonds will be issued as needed during the land purchase and construction of the project. These bonds will be paid for by the profitability of the facility as well as occupation and sales taxes from the Entertainment District.
The City of Bellevue is excited that this water park will be located in a projected new Entertainment District that will have the infrastructure available to readily fill in with other shops, restaurants, office space and entertainment options. Sarpy County is already the fastest growing county in the State of Nebraska and Bellevue City Officials are confident that this Entertainment District can provide another prime tourism option for visitors to our area by providing family friendly amenities and diverse recreational options.
Construction is expected to begin as soon as this summer with a projected grand opening in the Summer of 2026.