Washington County Partners Break Ground For Two Habitat Affordable Homes in Blair West Valley

BLAIR, Nebraska – Habitat for Humanity of Omaha, serving Washington County, and community partners, broke ground today for the first two affordable homes of a five-year, 10-home commitment in the West Valley subdivision near 24th and Nebraska Streets.

The new homes are part of a multi-pronged approach to provide much-needed affordable housing in the area and involve partners, including the City of Blair, the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, and corporate and individual supporters. A portion of the construction funding comes from the Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund (NAHTF).

“Blair and Washington County are growing,” said Blair Mayor Mindy Rump. People are coming to Blair for jobs and quality of life. However, we need more access to attainable housing for these hard-working, middle-class families. This West Valley effort is a solid first step in addressing the need for missing middle housing.”

A five-year study by Washington County in 2021 identified a significant need for affordable homes for teachers, automotive technicians, and agriculture and factory workers, who contribute significantly to the community’s vitality and economy.

“This Washington County partnership began simply by the community recognizing a need and people coming together to help,” said Habitat Omaha CEO Amanda Brewer. “A strong group of volunteers led by now-retired Cargill employee and ‘force of nature,’ Dee Sylvis, built a few homes. That legacy is now bringing all of our resources together to provide more access to affordable homes.” 

Editor’s Note: Event photos and additional information are available upon request.

In addition to this project, Habitat Omaha is working with Three Rivers Housing to rehabilitate 20 homes over the next four years to help preserve the area’s current housing stock and conducting Rock the Block events to engage neighbors in cleanups and light repairs to improve neighborhoods. Habitat Omaha, with the help of Cargill volunteers, began building homes in the area in 2007.

About Habitat for Humanity of Omaha 
Founded in 1984, Habitat for Humanity of Omaha builds and renovates homes, repairs existing houses and takes down blighted structures in a five-county area, including Burt, Cass, Douglas, 
Sarpy and Washington counties. Habitat also works with individuals and families to acquire the access, skills and financial education to become successful homeowners and, along with 

Habitat affiliates across the state advocate for better laws and systems. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit habitatomaha.org.

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