TILDEN, Neb.- The first step of bringing 34 new homes and sports center to Tilden is underway.

The idea came from longtime resident Jerry Dittrich who says the project is needed to keep the town expanding.

“To get more business in Tilden or any small community you need housing for the people,”said Dettrich. “And you need a school system that the parents or people moving to the area want to move to.”

Dittrich says the idea to develop started when an influx of younger couples moved to Tilden. Dittrich says 34 new family sized homes will be built in three phases and construction will start sooner rather than later. 

“We’re anticipating buildable lots a year from now [in] October,” said Dittrich.

This is not only about building new houses in Tilden. The Elkhorn valley school district is already underway building a new track and field. SuperIntendent Darin Hahne says says everyone from students to coaches is excited.

“It’ll be great for them because our kids will be able to practice on a track they be able to set up hurdles, use starting blocks,” said Hahne. “Instead of having to go to Neigh or Battle Creek to run on an actual track before an actual track meet.” 

The city council passed to move forward with the redevelopment 5-1.

With the new development on the way to Tilden, Dittrich says he’s happy to see his lifelong home continue to grow.

“ We have a really great group of local young guys and families that are in their 50’s with kids in school and their all wanting to make Tilden keep moving,”said Dittrich. 

The city of Tilden is expecting to finish construction of their football field by the start of the next football season.