Lively Omaha is pleased to present its Laurels Award to First National Bank of Nebraska's chairman Bruce Lauritzen. The Laurels Award is given in recognition of significant contributions to the creation of great public spaces in the city.

The banking company, which Lauritzen heads, has redeveloped 14 blocks in downtown Omaha over the past 7 years. Its most recent contribution to public space is a half block of fountains, sculpture, strolling, and seating space at the intersection of 16th and Dodge. The plaza is unique because it is not owned by local government, it's owned by a corporation.

The buildings on the property aren't open to the general public, Lauritzen said, so First National Bank wanted to provide and area for our citizens to enjoy. "Now we've got a little green space in the middle." he said.

On the west side of 16th Street is a fountain plaza featuring 81 jets spraying water in varying patterns controlled by a computer. The fountain is designed to entice the public to play in the spray and sit on the ledges to eat and talk.

On the other side of the street is the green space and pool that is the launch pad for 58 Canadian Geese that soar throughout the intersection and the Tower's 5 story glass atrium. Kent Ullberg's "Spirit of Nebraska Wilderness" features bronze geese splashing as they take flight out of the pool just as Lewis and Clark might have seen them. The birds circle the plazas and change from bronze to stainless steel that catches and reflects back the sunlight as they soar above.

"The concept of having a sculpture literally fly across the street and go inside
a building is a pretty bold statement," said George Haecker, principal architect for Bahr, Vermeer & Haecker. "It's certainly a visual interest for that little intersection. Given the theme and the story of it, it's a pretty bold gesture."

Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey said of the plaza "I think it's outstanding. We hope this is not the last. Every great city has these."

Lively Omaha congratulates Bruce Lauritzen and First National Bank of Nebraska for a great public space and a significant contribution to the quality of life in Omaha.