Norfolk was honored with two prestigious awards at the Mid-America Economic Development Council at its annual Economic Development Awards ceremony earlier this month in Columbus, Ohio.
The North Fork Riverfront Development Project received the ‘Placemaking Award’ for Large Communities highlighting its success in revitalizing the area. This was a major undertaking that transformed a three-mile stretch of riverfront near Norfolk’s downtown district into a vibrant, multipurpose community space. It features seven engineered rapids, including one designed for river surfing, revitalized Johnson Park, upgraded a main corridor bridge, and renovated two pedestrian bridges – one being a historic train bridge.
Pictured left to right: Angie Stenger, executive director of Northeast Nebraska Growing Together; Dr. Marysz Rames, president of Wayne State College; Steven Rames, public works director and city engineer-City of Norfolk; Candice Adler, economic development director-City of Norfolk.
City Engineer, Steven Rames said, “it is a great honor for the City of Norfolk and the ‘Northeast Nebraska Growing Together’ initiative to be recognized by the Mid-America Economic Development Council for their efforts in ‘Placemaking’ and ‘Workforce Development.’ These two awards highlight the collaborative efforts of our community, region, and state in addressing the unique needs of rural cities and working together to meet those challenges.”
Economic Development Director, Candice Adler said, “it took the effort of many to bring the Riverfront Development project and Northeast Nebraska Growing Together initiative to life, advancing opportunities for all. We are honored by the awards from the Mid-America Economic Development Council and grateful for their acknowledge of our work.”
It provides an attractive amenity for both residents and visitors, enhancing Norfolk’s appeal as a place to live, work, and play.
Northeast Nebraska Growing Together was awarded the ‘Workforce & Talent Award’. This is a collaborative program designed to attract, develop, and retain talent.
“I love getting the chance to share the story of our community. This award gave us a great platform to showcase all efforts we’re putting into making Norfolk a place where young people can build their lives and careers. It is a perfect opportunity to highlight to potential new businesses looking to expand to our region that we’re ready for growth and innovation,” said Angie Stenger, executive director of Growing Together Northeast Nebraska, powered by Aksarben.
Norfolk is a retail served community of Nebraska Public Power District.
Source: Nick Stevenson, Communications Manager, City of Norfolk
Photo credit: Mid-America Economic Development Council