NORFOLK, Neb. — A proposed entertainment center in northeast Nebraska is one step closer to reality, having reached a purchase agreement for a Norfolk-area property.

Americarts made the announcement Monday afternoon that it had reached the agreement with the owners of Nebraska Livestock Sales, LLC to acquire its property at 1601 S. 1st Street for use as a go-kart track and entertainment complex, having signed the agreement late last week. Plans call for a 120,000-square-foot Family Entertainment Center to be built on the property.

According to its founders and owners, Americarts is launching a capital campaign to meet its target opening date of November 2023.

“We are so pleased to announce this important step in the process of making the Americarts vision come to life right here in Norfolk,” said Stephanie Goodrich, co-founder of Americarts. “Our team is excited about moving this community-focused project forward and providing one of the most unique family entertainment experiences anywhere in the Midwest.”

Plans call for demolition and site-prep work on the sales barn property to start this fall, with construction of the new building starting in the spring of 2023.

Americarts officials also launched a capital campaign called The Americarts Founder’s Circle, with joining members eligible for several benefits. People will be able to purchase their Founder’s Circle membership until September 20th, 2022.

Once construction is complete, the Americarts Family Entertainment Center will feature three different Go Kart tracks, including a multi-level track with karts racing up to 40 miles per hour; an 8,000-square foot roller rink; an inflatable park; bumper cars; outdoor movie space; arcade games and more! A restaurant and a full bar are also planned.

Goodrich said accessibility will be emphasized in the design of the attractions and within the entertainment center infrastructure itself, allowing for use by people of all ages and those who experience disabilities. Facilities, on-site activities, and the go-karts themselves will all be accessible, Goodrich said.