Mayor Randy Pogue delivered his annual State of the City address during the Kearney Chamber of Commerce luncheon on June 3, spotlighting recent accomplishments and outlining priorities for the year ahead.
During his presentation, Mayor Pogue shared updates on several key infrastructure and community projects that are helping shape Kearney’s future.
“2025 has been another remarkable year for Kearney,” Mayor Pogue told Chamber members. “We have continued to make meaningful investments in infrastructure, economic development, parks, public safety, and other priorities that strengthen our community. New businesses are opening, major projects are taking shape, and we are making thoughtful decisions that position Kearney for long-term success.
The first item Pogue highlighted was the1 billion-gallon water tower, which is now fully operational. City crews also cleaned and inspected more than 21,000 feet of sanitary sewer lines, rehabilitated more than 5,000 feet through trenchless lining, and completed major maintenance improvements at the water treatment facility, where treatment basins were sandblasted and recoated to prevent corrosion and extend their useful life.
Another topic Pogue talked about was Kearney’s strong economic momentum. He acknowledged the opening of Precision Athletics & Wellness and River Trails BierWerks which opened this spring. He also commented that Kearney’s Innovation Business Park is nearing full buildout.
The mayor also highlighted national business brands that are going through the approval and construction process in Kearney, including Chipotle, AutoZone, and Les Schwab Tires.
Mayor Pogue also talked about the downtown revitalization of the original portion of Kearney through the CORE 353 redevelopment program. Six major projects have already been approved that represent more than $5.5 million in private investment.
Pogue also listed ways that Kearney became a more connected community in 2025 through pathway gap projects that improve connectivity and pedestrian safety throughout Kearney. These projects built five new sidewalk connections, ADA-accessible ramps at key locations, and a flashing pedestrian beacon at Meadowbrook Drive to improve crossing safety.
At Lions Park, the city completed a major playground replacement project using a new poured-in-place safety surface, significantly improving accessibility, safety, and usability for children of all abilities. At Jesse James Park, the city added new playground features, including a Ten Spin attraction and a new web climber.
Mayor Pogue also outlined future projects for the city. Projects in the works include the Mack Porter Park connector trail, which will create new recreational and transportation opportunities, a new water line along Nation Road which will support future development near the interchange, the 19th Street Complete Street project to enhance connectivity, improve safety, and support future development potential, and major wastewater system improvements, including a $60 million expansion of the wastewater treatment facility to accommodate Kearney’s continued growth.
Mayor Pogue concluded by reaffirming his commitment to Kearney’s growth and unity: “When I reflect on all we have accomplished, one thing becomes clear: the true strength of Kearney is its people. Success is measured not only in infrastructure and development, but in the families who enjoy our parks, the businesses that choose to invest here, the volunteers who serve their neighbors, and the residents who believe in this community’s future.”
KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.
