South of Downtown (SoDo) Neighborhood Master Plan

Lincoln, Nebraska

Despite continued redevelopment efforts in Downtown Lincoln, Nebraska, especially in the Haymarket District and near the University of Nebraska campus, the housing stock in its adjacent residential neighborhoods just south of the State Capitol has continued to experience declining conditions. At the same time, given the neighborhood’s relative affordability, abundance of rental options, walkability, and proximity to Downtown, the area has long been home to transient populations, new foreign immigrants, college students, young professionals, and entry-level workers. The Lincoln Community Foundation took the lead on developing a master plan to improve the image and quality of this area in order to encourage new investment, while identifying ways to minimize displacement and promote equitable economic opportunities for its current residents.

Our Approach

Development Strategies was part of a planning team led by H3 Studio of St. Louis to determine the market potential for new housing and devise a strategy to support neighborhood stabilization efforts. Given the scale of the housing challenges and the need for long-term incremental investment, including patient capital for property acquisition, Development Strategies outlined a framework for the creation of a dedicated community development organization to be incorporated into the area’s already strong and comprehensive human services network. From these recommendations, the South of Downtown Community Development Organization was formed and continues to be a steward of the master plan.