By Scout Nelson
Governor Jim Pillen announced funding for three regional projects under Nebraska’s 6 Regions, One Nebraska initiative on December 20, 2024. These awards, each amounting to $200,000, focus on collaborative efforts to address regional priorities in the Southeast, Metro, and Northeast areas.
During the announcement in Lincoln, Gov. Pillen emphasized the importance of thinking beyond individual communities to support regional growth. “To succeed in growing the state, we have to think beyond the welfare of our hometown,” he stated, appreciating the leadership commitment to the initiative.
Launched in 2024, 6 Regions, One Nebraska aims to foster cooperation among communities rather than competition. Over the year, regional leaders reviewed demographic and economic data to identify shared challenges. Collaborative working groups developed proposals to address these issues, securing funding through the state-administered American Rescue Plan Act.
The Northeast region prioritized affordable housing, receiving funding for a housing analysis project. Co-chair Josh Moenning highlighted the importance of addressing housing challenges as a key step toward regional development. Similarly, the Metro region collaborated with Spark, an Omaha-based nonprofit, to support aspiring developers in creating affordable housing across neighborhoods.
The Southeast region, represented by the Southeast Community College District, focused on infrastructure. “Water is vitally important to our region’s economic wellbeing, both to support agricultural production and manufacturing,” noted co-chair Jonathan Jank, explaining the need to evaluate and sustain water resources.
These awards represent a joint effort by Nebraska’s state leaders, regional participants, and philanthropic partners to ensure long-term regional sustainability and growth. The initiative highlights the potential of collaboration in tackling shared challenges and achieving meaningful development across the state.
Photo Credit:pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: Nebraska, General, Government & Policy