Joining Habitat for Humanity to Expand Affordable Housing
Cobalt Credit Union is proud to join Habitat for Humanity of Omaha, Hoppe Development, and local officials in celebrating the groundbreaking of the Tallgrass Development in the Oak Leaf Subdivision in Sarpy County.
This new community will provide 30 affordable single-family homes, offering local families the opportunity to build strength, stability, and independence through homeownership.
Habitat Omaha, Cobalt Credit Union and Hoppe
Development Break Ground on New Tallgrass Neighborhood
Habitat for Humanity of Omaha broke ground Monday on its first new-build development in Papillion, located near South 72nd Street and Capehart Road. The 30 single-family homes will be part of Tallgrass, a 35-acre, 600-unit mixed-income neighborhood within the larger 440-acre Oak Leaf subdivision.
The project will also introduce Habitat Omaha’s newest type of affordable housing – row houses. These homes offer new opportunities for affordability and will appeal to a variety of families, including young professionals, skilled tradespeople, laborers and eligible veterans and active-duty military, looking to purchase their first home.
“As Papillion continues to grow, it’s critical that we make room for the families who want to put down roots here. Too often, rising housing costs push people away from the very community they’re helping to build,” Habitat Omaha CEO Amanda Brewer said. “Tallgrass isn’t just about new development – it’s about ensuring that new and longtime families alike can stay connected to their schools, jobs and support systems in Papillion.”
A key partner in making this affordable housing possible is Cobalt Credit Union, which has invested $7 million in a multi-year commitment support homeownership in the Tallgrass neighborhood.
“As a local credit union, Cobalt is deeply invested in the success of our neighbors and the communities we call home,” Cobalt President/CEO Robin Larsen said. “Partnering with Habitat for Humanity of Omaha to bring affordable housing to Sarpy County reflects our shared belief that everyone deserves a place to build their life and their dreams. This work represents progress, opportunity, and the kind of future we’re proud to help shape — right here in our own backyard.”
Habitat Omaha has partnered with for-profit developer, Hoppe Development, on the project. The development serves as a model for mixed income housing by offering a unique blend of affordable and market rental and ownership opportunities side by side in one neighborhood.
“Tallgrass reimagines neighborhood development, where affordability is considered a community asset and is integrated in a new suburban neighborhood design," said Fred Hoppe, principal of Housing Development. "If we are going to address the affordable housing challenges of our communities, we have to build affordable housing at scale alongside market rate housing, in highly desirable communities like Papillion, with strong schools and supportive community infrastructure. This project delivers on these goals."
Sarpy County was the fifth fastest-growing county in Nebraska in 2024, and the demand for affordable housing continues to rise. Habitat Omaha’s work in Papillion helps meet that demand with sustainable, community-focused solutions.
“Habitat Omaha’s work in the new Tallgrass neighborhood, with support from Cobalt Credit Union and Hoppe Development, shows what’s possible when we come together with a shared vision,” Papillion Mayor David Black said. “We’re building more than houses – we’re building futures, right here in Papillion.” Habitat Omaha is now accepting applications from individuals and families interested in homeownership. For more information, visit habitatomaha.org.
About Habitat for Humanity of Omaha
Founded in 1984, Habitat for Humanity of Omaha builds and renovates homes, repairs existing houses, and takes down blighted structures in a five-county area, including Burt, Cass, Douglas, Sarpy, and Washington counties. Habitat also works with individuals and families to acquire the access, skills and financial education to become successful homeowners and, along with Habitat affiliates across the state, advocates for better laws and systems. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit habitatomaha.org.
Building Homes, Strengthening Communities
The Tallgrass Development will bring affordable homes to Sarpy County, with plans to construct six homes each year over the next five years. The project is designed to meet growing housing needs while creating long-term impact for the families and the broader community. A brief ceremony will officially kick off the development, followed by refreshments for attendees.
Cobalt Credit Union is proud to invest nearly $7 million to purchase 30 mortgages for homes built by Habitat for Humanity. This partnership directly supports affordable homeownership and strengthens the communities we serve. We are honored to stand alongside Habitat for Humanity of Omaha and Hoppe Development in advancing this vital initiative.
