Papillion garage becomes four townhomes

The former Papillion public works garage on Main Street is now a residential building. Urban Village Development converted the structure into four new townhomes, marking one of the city's first Tax Increment Financing projects.

The building retains its historical exterior. Jerry Reimer, co-owner of Urban Village Development, said the team repainted the "Papillion Public Works" signage rather than removing it. "We wanted to honor this is the Public Works Building," Reimer said. The developers are also installing stone on the adjacent property to match the historic character of the original garage.

Reimer said the project aims to attract families to the downtown area while preserving the neighborhood's aesthetic. The building features a mix of two-bedroom and three-bedroom units. Two of the four townhomes have already been pre-leased. The remaining two units will become available to rent on November 1, 2026.

Behind the main structure, developers are planning a pocket neighborhood with apartment-style housing. Reimer stated that construction on those smaller buildings is scheduled to begin in May, June, or July of 2027. The units will be completed sequentially, with a new home finishing approximately four weeks after the previous one.

Local business owners in downtown Papillion view the new residents as a way to increase foot traffic. Luba Carlson, owner of Kalina Art Studio, said the area is usually empty. "Having more people here will make it like a destination rather than a location," Carlson said. She expressed excitement about seeing more people spending time in the neighborhood.

The redevelopment is part of a broader effort to boost economic growth in the city. The conversion of the public works garage serves as a model for future TIF projects in Douglas County. The four townhomes are currently on the market for prospective tenants.