BENNINGTON, Neb. (KMTV) — 3 News Now reporter Jill Lamkins is closely monitoring the rapid growth in Northwest Omaha, where a significant new healthcare facility is set to enhance the local medical landscape. Community members are weighing in on the potential effects this development could have on their lives.
- Nebraska Medicine is preparing to unveil a new clinic at the corner of 156th and State in Bennington.
- Construction for the Nebraska Medicine clinic is scheduled to commence this December, with an anticipated opening date in the fall of 2025.
- Residents express enthusiasm about the prospect of reduced travel time for essential medical services.
BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:
As Northwest Omaha continues to expand, the growth narrative is extending beyond the residential sector; the community is witnessing the rise of new businesses, such as a cozy coffee shop, and the recent expansion of the OrthoNebraska facility at 180th and Maple — a story that 3 News Now reporter Jill Lamkins covered last week. In addition to these developments, it’s been confirmed that Nebraska Medicine will establish a new healthcare facility at 156th and State.
The Bennington Health Center, a significant addition to Nebraska Medicine’s primary care program, will feature 18 patient exam rooms, accommodate two physicians, and employ a dedicated staff of about 10 to 12 members.
But how is this news resonating with local residents?
Lamkins visited Hay-Jay’s Coffee, which has recently opened in the area, where she engaged with Dan and Deb Peterson and Richard and Chris Cecava to gather their thoughts. Deb Peterson reflected on her family’s move to the area in 2016, recalling how their kids considered it remote. “Our kids said, well, you guys are going to the boondocks, and now it’s not that far out. With all the development going on around, it feels more like the city than ever before,” she shared.
The area has witnessed tremendous growth, with over 23,000 new homes constructed in the last two decades and more than 1,000 homes approved just last year.
Local friends expressed contentment with the new clinic’s arrival. Chris Cecava mentioned, “I have to have a blood draw on a regular basis, you know, like at least once a month and sometimes once a week. If I can just do that over there, that is so much easier.”
Tom Macy, vice president of operations with Nebraska Medicine, explained their decision to expand in the area by noting the remarkable growth observed in the last 5 to 7 years. “When we were looking at this area, there’s not a lot out there—a lot of new houses, but not a lot of healthcare options just yet,” Macy explained.
The site has been strategically selected to accommodate future growth, with the potential for the clinic to expand its staff and resources over time. Importantly, it will also provide immediate care services during weekday evenings, weekends, and holidays.
With construction slated to begin this December, the new facility is expected to be ready for patients by the fall of 2025.
What prompted the establishment of the new Nebraska Medicine clinic in Bennington?
**Interview with Jill Lamkins on the New Nebraska Medicine Clinic in Bennington**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Jill. You’ve been following the growth in Northwest Omaha closely, particularly with the announcement of the new Nebraska Medicine clinic. Can you share what prompted this development?
**Jill Lamkins:** Absolutely! The rapid expansion in Northwest Omaha has created a significant demand for healthcare services. With more residents moving into the area, the need for accessible medical facilities has become clear. Nebraska Medicine recognized this opportunity to enhance community health services and decided to establish this new clinic at the corner of 156th and State.
**Editor:** The construction is set to begin this December, with an opening targeted for fall 2025. What can residents expect from this new facility?
**Jill Lamkins:** The Bennington Health Center will be a substantial addition, featuring 18 patient exam rooms and room for two physicians. It aims to provide a range of primary care services, which should greatly benefit residents who currently travel considerable distances for routine medical needs. This will not only enhance convenience but also improve overall access to health care in the area.
**Editor:** Community members have expressed enthusiasm about this development. What specific feedback have you gathered regarding the impact on their lives?
**Jill Lamkins:** Many residents are excited about the prospect of reduced travel times for essential medical services. Some have mentioned that the longer drives to existing facilities can be quite challenging, especially for families with children or elderly members. They see the new clinic as a way to streamline their access to healthcare and reduce stress associated with long commutes for medical appointments.
**Editor:** It sounds like this project is not just about healthcare; it’s tied to the community’s growth overall. How do you see this clinic fitting into that broader development narrative in Northwest Omaha?
**Jill Lamkins:** Exactly! The new clinic is part of a larger trend of growth in the area, which includes not only healthcare facilities like OrthoNebraska but also new businesses, such as coffee shops and retail spaces. This clinic represents both a response to the community’s needs and an investment in the area’s future—making Northwest Omaha a more attractive place to live not only for families but also for businesses looking to thrive.
**Editor:** Thank you, Jill, for highlighting these important developments in Bennington. We look forward to more updates as construction begins!
**Jill Lamkins:** My pleasure! I’ll continue to keep an eye on the progress and the community’s reaction as the project unfolds.