Lincoln, Nebraska – Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen welcomed United States Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner to the state this week for a series of meetings and tours focused on housing affordability, workforce housing expansion, and economic revitalization efforts in both rural and urban communities.
The visit centered heavily on Nebraska’s participation in the Opportunity Zones Initiative and ongoing efforts to encourage investment, reduce housing costs, and create stronger economic growth across the state.
Governor Pillen said the visit showcased Nebraska’s ability to work collaboratively at every level of government while focusing on practical solutions for families and businesses.
“Nebraska’s great potential and great collaboration – local, state, federal – was on full display during Secretary Turner’s visit,” Pillen said. “I’m really proud of our state, and I can’t thank the Secretary enough for visiting and taking the time to hear directly from the people of Nebraska.”
The governor also emphasized his belief that reducing government obstacles and encouraging private sector growth would help unlock greater opportunities statewide.
“I believe if we keep working together, get the heavy hand of government out of the way, and create a framework of policies that allows Nebraskans to succeed, the potential of our state is endless,” Pillen added.
Housing Affordability and Opportunity Zones Take Center Stage
HUD Secretary Scott Turner praised Nebraska officials for working to address rising housing costs and strengthen local communities.
“Nebraska leaders are answering President Trump’s call to lower the cost of homeownership and drive meaningful community revitalization across the nation, and we are glad to partner with them in that effort,” Turner said.
He also highlighted the importance of hearing directly from residents, local leaders, and housing professionals during stops in Omaha and Fremont.
“The visits to Omaha and Fremont with Governor Pillen offered a firsthand look at the progress being made in Nebraska,” Turner said. “I appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from state leaders and housing industry professionals about the challenges families face and how this Administration’s policies are making a difference for Nebraskans.”
Turner added that HUD remains committed to expanding affordable housing opportunities and encouraging investment in underserved communities.
“HUD is committed to working alongside our state and local partners here to increase affordable housing options, encourage investment in underserved areas, and assist more Americans in reaching homeownership,” he said.
The visit began Thursday morning at Creighton University in downtown Omaha, where Pillen and Turner hosted a Mortgage Affordability Roundtable.
The event brought together business leaders, policymakers, housing experts, and community stakeholders to discuss strategies aimed at lowering housing costs, increasing housing supply, and reducing regulatory burdens that can slow development projects.
Governor Pillen voiced strong support for efforts to make homeownership more attainable for younger generations.
“I agree 100% with Secretary Turner: We have to put the American Dream of owning a home within reach for the next generation,” Pillen said. “HUD, under the Secretary’s leadership as part of President Trump’s Administration, is doing some amazing things to make housing more affordable, increase supply, and get government overregulation out of the way.”
Leaders Tour Revitalization Projects in Omaha and Fremont
Following the roundtable discussion, Governor Pillen and Secretary Turner toured Omaha’s Highlander Accelerator neighborhood alongside Omaha Mayor John Ewing Jr.
The tour showcased several community-focused projects and redevelopment efforts, including visits to the Charles Drew Health Center, the Micro Market, the Community Greenhouse, and local housing developments.
Officials later held a joint press conference discussing the broader goals of revitalization efforts tied to housing and economic investment.
The final portion of the visit took place in Fremont, where state and federal leaders hosted an Opportunity Zones and Workforce Housing Listening Session.
Local leaders, workforce housing specialists, and business representatives participated in discussions focused on encouraging long-term investment and expanding housing options for workers and families.
Governor Pillen said the Opportunity Zones initiative is helping Nebraska strengthen both urban and rural communities through partnerships between government agencies and private organizations.
“The root of HUD’s mission is to lift Americans into prosperity and opportunity,” Pillen said. “Through the Opportunity Zones initiative – which we highlighted in North Omaha and Fremont – the state of Nebraska is working with federal, public, and private partners to create investment in our communities, both rural and urban. It’s a mission we can all get behind.”
State officials say the visit reflects Nebraska’s continued focus on addressing housing shortages, encouraging economic development, and improving access to affordable homes throughout the state.
