New study defines economic contributions

LINCOLN, NEB. (May 23, 2012)— A staggering $196 million per year is generated each year by heritage tourism in the state, according to a new report, “Heritage Tourism in Nebraska.” Researchers studied the economic impact of visitors to historic sites and museums in 2011, and found it to be a large and growing component of Nebraska’s tourism industry. 

MAY 21, 2012 (LINCOLN, NEB.)—The Nebraska Department of Economic Development has awarded a total $438,851 in HOME set-aside funding to Northeast Economic Development Inc. (NED Inc.), a nonprofit 501(c)(3), for two Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation projects in northeast and north central Nebraska.  

NED, Inc. has identified a significant need for housing rehabilitation for families earning at or below 80 percent of the Area Family Median Income in the counties in which it serves.  

MAY 17, 2012 (WAYNE, NEB.)—Dignitaries were on hand today celebrating the opening of Wayne’s newest corporate resident, Williams Form Engineering.  

Participating in a ribbon-cutting ceremony were Ron Townsend, President of Williams Form Engineering, Lt. Governor Rick Sheehy, Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) Director Catherine Lang, Wayne Mayor Ken Chamberlain, and Wes Blecke, executive director of Wayne Area Economic Development (WAED).  

MAY 16, 2012 (LINCOLN, NEB.) The Nebraska Department of Economic Development has awarded a total $450,000 from the Civic and Community Center Financing Fund to the cities of Ralston and Sidney for projects related to the renovation and development of cultural and convention centers.