OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska Natural Resources District is opening Omaha’s newest park and lake after spending nine years developing the $44 million project.

The Papio-Missouri River district will open Flanagan Lake on Wednesday. The area also includes 475 acres (192 hectares) of parkland, recreational trails and a flood-control reservoir.

The lake will reduce the floodplain and likely eliminate or reduce flood insurance rates for area homeowners.

The district broke ground on the project almost three years ago. It will turn the park and lake over to the City of Omaha to operate. The city named the recreation area after the Rev. Edward Flanagan, the founder of Boys Town.

The grand opening this week will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a contest with prizes.
tion from: Omaha World-Herald, http://www.omaha.com