NORFOLK, Neb. — An abandoned house adjacent to Ta-Ha-Zouka Park is set to be revitalized as the city of Norfolk finalizes an agreement to acquire the property. The deal, reached between the city council and the previous owners, aims to repurpose the land for the Parks and Recreation department, with the expansion of the park's sports facilities.

"We would like to demolish the house. It is run down," said Norfolk Parks and Recreation Director Nathan Powell. Citing issues such as mold, Powell outlined plans to utilize an existing heated shop on the property for maintenance needs. "There is a heated shop that allows for maintenance needs that we have that are continuing to grow as we expand the softball complex and also looking at expanding our soccer field as well.”

The sale, totaling $279,535.50, is anticipated to close in September 2025. According to Powell, construction and redevelopment efforts are expected to commence shortly thereafter, signaling a swift transition for the property.