By Katie Knapp Schubert
Papillion, NE – The Omaha Royals' new home will be in Papillion.
Sarpy County Commissioners voted Monday 3-2 to build a stadium at a site along 120th Street and Highway 370 in Papillion. The site was chosen from three finalists. The other two were in Bellevue and Papillion.
Cost, potential for growth and development, traffic, roads, and aesthetics were all factors in the decision. Sarpy County Board Chairwoman Joni Jones says the Bellevue and La Vista sites would have put the county over the project's $26 million cost. Also, the Papillion site will feature an ice rink, fitness complex, and other family-friendly amenities.
Sarpy County has an additional 30 days to finalize the negotiations and contracts. There's no word on when construction may begin.
Royals Owner Alan Stein says the team is happy to be staying in the Omaha metro area and believes the new stadium will be world-class.