Commercial Construction – March 2025

Omaha’s commercial construction industry is driving economic growth and shaping the city’s future. Since 2009, the value of building permits has been on a steady rise, with a significant surge in new commercial developments since 2020. From revitalizing downtown spaces to expanding suburban business hubs, Omaha continues to invest in innovative commercial projects that enhance the local economy. This surge in development isn’t just creating construction jobs—it’s also generating opportunities for electricians, plumbers, engineers, and other skilled professionals who contribute to building Omaha’s infrastructure.

Engineered Controls (engineeredcontrols.com) is a leading building control technologies contractor specializing in designing, installing, managing, and servicing building management and security solutions. They work with buildings and facilities of all sizes and types, ensuring efficient and effective control systems that enhance safety, comfort, and sustainability.

The company’s vision is to contribute to projects that revolutionize how buildings are designed, constructed, and operated. Their mission is to create environmentally responsible, profitable, and healthy places for people to live and work. By integrating cutting-edge control technologies into their designs and actively participating in contracting work, Engineered Controls is a key player in the green movement within Nebraska and Iowa’s construction industry.

Their primary goal is to provide customers with top-tier products and services that foster energy efficiency, safety, and comfort in building environments. Engineered Controls helps businesses optimize their energy use, reduce operational costs, and improve indoor air quality by implementing state-of-the-art automation systems. Their commitment to sustainability and innovation ensures that clients receive the most advanced and reliable building management solutions available.

With a focus on quality, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, Engineered Controls continues to be a trusted partner in transforming the future of building management and security systems.

Commercial construction is a dynamic process that requires meticulous planning, expert execution, and ongoing support to ensure the client’s vision is successfully realized. Cheever Construction (cheeverconstruction.com) follows a structured approach to bring projects from design to completion while maintaining strong client collaboration. This process is broken down into three key phases: Pre-Construction, Construction, and Post-Construction.

Cheever Constructions approach to creating or fulfilling a client’s vision starts with spending time with the client months before construction begins. The time spent in meetings with our clients during the Pre-Construction phase allows our team of professionals to get a true understanding of our clients’ needs to accomplish their project vision. After we gain knowledge of their project objectives our team makes recommendations on construction methods, and scheduling needs to ensure that our client’s vision comes to fruition.

Once the Pre-Construction planning is complete, the project transitions into the Construction phase. This phase includes periodic meetings with clients. These meetings are held to update construction progress, discuss any changes the client wishes to incorporate, and project challenges and solutions.

Upon completion of the project the Cheever Construction team continues communication with clients to address any issues that come up while they are operating in their new facility. The first year there are inevitably small challenges as the new facility or space acclimates. The construction team is always prepared to jump in and guide clients so they can troubleshoot any items they have.

Through this structured approach, Cheever Construction ensures that each client’s vision is meticulously planned, expertly executed, and fully supported beyond completion, reinforcing their reputation as a trusted partner in commercial construction.

“We pride ourselves at Huffman Engineering, Inc. (HEI) (huffmaneng.com) on Making Ideas Work in the engineering and automation space, specifically controls integration. What we do can be technologically complex, especially on large projects, and is often the reason we’re brought in—as the client knows exactly what they want the end result to be but wants to find a valued partner to help them sort through the complicated steps to help them achieve that end result,” says Mike Obst, Omaha Business Development & Client Relationship, Huffman Engineering.

HEI’s core values are all built around helping clients achieve the following goals:

• Doing the Right Thing
• Embracing Difficult Challenges
• Simplifying the Complex
• Making Others Successful
• Displaying Anticipatory Initiative
• Being Committed & Disciplined from Start To Finish

HEI starts by walking through its client’s process, onsite, and learns what it does and how it currently operates. HEI asks about his/her plans for how a system could work for him/her and pin points what is not working well. HEI asks questions on how the clients think it should work to increase efficiency, safety, speed, production or to meet their sustainability, energy reduction or production goals.

HEI follows a systematic project methodology of Planning & Discovery, Quality Design, Quality Implementation and Testing & Commissioning with every project to make sure it can live by its HEI Guarantee “We Make it Work. We Make It Right.” At every step of the process, HEI commits to solid communication to ensure it is aligned with its clients throughout the projects.  This is especially necessary during complex projects with multiple partners, which can last several years from start to finish.

“Our goal is always to create lasting relationships with our clients, so when they have engineering and automation needs, our experience, quality, integrity and responsiveness will continue to keep us as partners,” concludes Obst.

Langer Electric (langerelectricne.com) is a trusted electrical contractor dedicated to providing superior service with professionalism and expertise. Their team of highly skilled electricians is equipped to handle a broad range of electrical needs, from residential and commercial projects to specialized services such as lighting installations, security camera setups, and boat lift wiring. Whether it’s a small repair, a complete rewiring, or a new installation, Langer Electric has the knowledge and experience to ensure the job is done safely, efficiently, and up to code.

Committed to excellence, Langer Electric takes pride in delivering high-quality workmanship and ensuring that every project runs smoothly from start to finish. Their team works diligently to meet and exceed customer expectations, providing tailored electrical solutions that fit the specific needs of each client. They understand that electrical issues can be disruptive, which is why they strive to provide prompt, reliable service with minimal downtime.

In addition to their technical expertise, Langer Electric prioritizes safety, adhering to the highest industry standards and regulations. Their electricians are continuously trained in the latest advancements in electrical technology, ensuring that they can offer cutting-edge solutions. Whether working on a residential home, a commercial building, or a marine installation, they bring the same level of dedication and professionalism to every job.

With a strong reputation for integrity, quality, and customer satisfaction, Langer Electric is the go-to choice for anyone seeking dependable and expert electrical services. Their commitment to excellence ensures that each project is completed with precision and care.

For over 14 years, Control Depot (controldepotinc.com) has been a leader in building automation solutions, helping businesses and homeowners efficiently manage HVAC, lighting, security, and life safety systems. As the first dedicated building automation controls distributor in the region, Control Depot has grown into the Midwest’s premier source for smart building technology. Whether providing basic replacement components or fully integrated automation systems, the company delivers cost-effective solutions tailored to commercial and residential needs.

As a Honeywell Authorized Systems Distributor, Control Depot offers a full range of Honeywell products, from thermostats to advanced web-based automation systems. As a Belimo Platinum Distributor, it supplies top-tier actuators, valves, and sensors for HVAC efficiency. The company has also gained national recognition as the Honeywell Analytics “Manning” Refrigeration Gas Detection National Master Distributor, showcasing its expertise in refrigeration gas monitoring.
Beyond distribution, Control Depot is committed to creating safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient environments. Their expert team provides personalized service to contractors, engineers, and institutional clients. With locations in Omaha, Lincoln, and Kansas City, the company serves Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, Kansas, and Missouri.

Through innovation, top-quality products, and exceptional support, Control Depot continues to shape the future of smart building technology, ensuring efficient and sustainable building management.

As Omaha’s commercial landscape continues to expand, companies like Engineered Controls, Cheever Construction, Huffman Engineering, Control Depot and Langer Electric are playing a vital role in shaping the city’s future. From cutting-edge building automation to expert construction management, advanced engineering solutions, and high-quality electrical work, these industry leaders are committed to excellence. Their dedication to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction ensures that Omaha remains a thriving hub for business and development for years to come.

As of early 2025, Omaha, Nebraska’s commercial construction market is experiencing significant growth, driven by urban revitalization, industrial expansion, and major development projects. Despite challenges such as rising construction costs and interest rates, Omaha remains a leader among cities of its size due to its proactive approach to development and substantial investments.

Key Trends in Omaha’s Commercial Construction Market:

• Urban Core Revitalization – Downtown Omaha is undergoing a transformation with projects like the 44-story Mutual of Omaha headquarters, a new streetcar system, and a 72-acre park system. These developments aim to enhance connectivity, attract businesses, and boost tourism.
• Industrial Sector Growth – Omaha’s industrial market remains strong, with over 3.7 million square feet of space under construction. Vacancy rates are low, and demand continues to grow, making it one of the city’s most active real estate sectors.
• Suburban Expansion – The city continues to push westward and southwestward, with new infrastructure projects and residential communities supporting commercial growth. Retail and office developments are following the population shift into these expanding areas.
• Significant Investments – Omaha is currently undergoing more than $9 billion in new developments, including upgrades to Eppley Airfield, large-scale commercial projects, and expansions in the medical and technology sectors. These investments will shape the city’s economy and business landscape for years to come.

Comparison to Similar-Sized Cities

Omaha’s commercial construction market stands out compared to other mid-sized cities due to its resilience, diversified growth, and proactive development initiatives. While many cities struggle with stagnation in office and retail sectors, Omaha continues to attract investment, maintain low vacancy rates, and support a thriving business environment. The combination of industrial expansion, infrastructure improvements, and a growing workforce makes it a model for sustained economic growth.

Overall, Omaha’s commercial construction market is thriving, with strong industrial and urban development driving its momentum. These trends, combined with major investments and strategic city planning, position Omaha as a standout among similar-sized cities.