Papillion, Neb. – At the corner of Washington and Lincoln Streets in the heart of Papillion, Nebraska, something exciting is happening.

Construction has officially kicked off on Phase 2 of the Papillion City Park Destination Playground and Road Improvements project. After months of planning and design, this next phase is bringing new life to a well-loved community space.

“This is always an exciting time for a project,” said Michael Sinclair, Project Manager at Schemmer. “We start with ideas on paper, then in a computer model, but seeing those take shape on-site is always exciting.”

Getting the Foundation Right

Before any construction began, Schemmer worked with Confluence and the City of Papillion to set the groundwork: surveying the site, locating utilities, coordinating with stakeholders, and preparing the design.

That initial phase also included a geotechnical study. Our team drilled borings and tested soil conditions to ensure the site could support the improvements ahead. It’s the kind of foundational work that doesn’t always make headlines but plays a big role in making sure everything functions the way it should.

Here’s What’s Coming

Phase 2 is focused on building features the community can enjoy every day. Whether that’s a quiet walk, a family outing, or a summer concert.

The upgrades include:

• A new destination playground with nature-inspired play features and the “Papio Pile Up” climbing structure
• A multi-use performance pavilion that functions as both a stage and a picnic shelter
• Improved internal roads and expanded parking
• A looping trail and walking paths
• Porch swings, picnic areas, and hammock groves
• Boulder clusters, open lawns, and native landscaping
• Market and food truck areas, a trail bridge, and entrance monuments with water features
• Updated lighting, stormwater improvements, and accessible paths throughout

“It really is the heart of the community,” said Michael. “It brings people together, outside, grounded in nature and it’s something everyone can be part of.”

Thoughtful, Flexible Design

The new pavilion structure is a great example of how this project is designed with everyday use in mind.

“We took two things that were already there, a picnic shelter and a stage, and combined them into one structure,” said Michael. “It opens onto two distinct lawns, so it can support a variety of events. That’s what parks need. Spaces that can be used all year, for all kinds of activities.”

Tied to Local Character

The design also reflects what makes Papillion unique.

“There’s a lot of history here,” Michael said. “The Monarch butterfly is part of the city’s identity, and we’ve included subtle nods to that in the design. We’re also using materials that complement some of the newer city facilities. It’s about tying everything together in a way that feels natural.”

Moving Forward

There’s still more to come, but the project is officially in motion. Over the next several months, Papillion’s central park will continue to grow into a space that’s more connected, more welcoming, and more reflective of the community around it.

“I’ve always loved the outdoors,” he added. “And helping create places that bring people outside and connect them with nature makes for a very rewarding project to be part of.

Schemmer is proud to be a part of this story.

SCHEMMER – DESIGN WITH PURPOSE. BUILD WITH CONFIDENCE.

At Schemmer, we believe that great design goes beyond structures, it strengthens communities. As a full-service architecture, engineering, and construction field services consultant, we deliver innovative solutions that enhance the built environment and improve lives.

Since 1959, we have been shaping the future while honoring our legacy. With eight offices across five states in the Midwest, our expertise reaches coast-to-coast, bringing thoughtful, sustainable, and impactful solutions to every project.

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