AUBURN, Neb. — Auburn is preparing to expand its housing stock as the Westgate development reaches substantial completion, marking a major step in the city’s growth plans. Graham Construction, the contractor for the project, certified substantial completion in August, paving the way for lot sales beginning this fall.
The $2.9 million project delivers 29 single-family and seven multi-family lots, designed to give Auburn a much-needed boost in residential options. Local leaders say the development will not only increase housing availability but also stimulate investment in surrounding neighborhoods.
City Councilman Tom Clark praised the quality of work after touring the site. “I visited the site and described the work as excellent,” he said, noting that final grading and seeding should be finished in the next few weeks.
City Administrator Crystal Dunekacke confirmed that preparations for lot sales are underway. “Residents should see for sale signs and advertising boards going up at the site soon,” she said. “When street lights and signage are in place, the lots will be turned over to buyers for construction.”
The city hopes the project will attract a range of homeowners and developers, particularly as Auburn continues to grapple with housing shortages seen across many small and mid-sized Nebraska communities. By offering both single-family and multi-family lots, the development provides options for young families, retirees, and potential rental developers.
Alongside the housing update, the Auburn City Council addressed several other matters in its recent meeting. Members approved an additional $2,796 toward the downtown revitalization and Community Redevelopment Authority (CRA) grant for brick repairs at 922 Central Avenue, owned by Holly Siske. That project had already benefited from $40,000 in revitalization funds and $13,000 from the CRA.
The council also scheduled a special meeting on Sept. 24 at 5 p.m., which will include a budget hearing and the city’s one- and six-year road improvement plans.
However, city finances remain tight. Officials reported that sales tax revenue is lagging, with collections sitting at $569,000, about $26,000 below budget and $80,000 behind last year’s total. Auburn had budgeted $595,000 in sales tax revenue for the fiscal year, raising concerns about balancing future infrastructure and community investments.
To support future growth, the council also approved a zoning change from medium-density residential to commercial residential at 1319 26th Street, potentially opening the door for additional development opportunities.
With Mayor Chris Erickson absent due to work commitments, Councilman Nathan Seitz presided over the meeting.
The Westgate development is expected to play a critical role in Auburn’s housing future. By bringing dozens of new lots to the market, city officials hope to attract both longtime residents looking to upgrade and newcomers seeking a place to call home.
Originally reported by Dan Swanson in News Channel Nebraska, River County.
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