Street in Omaha renamed after its first elected Black mayor

A stretch of a street in Omaha has been renamed after the city’s first elected Black mayor, John Ewing Jr.

Ewing started his term this summer and has plenty of memories from walking down the renamed street as a child. The stretch of Lothrop St. between 22nd and the historic 24th streets has been ceremoniously renamed John W. Ewing Jr. St.

“The reality is, it’s always nice to remember and reflect on the things that you’ve been able to be a part of. And I’ve been able to be a part of some really great things,” Ewing said.

Ewing also said he hopes to expand the city’s street car to North and South Omaha.

Dozens of North Omaha residents and elected leaders attended the unveiling ceremony, including former senatorial candidate Preston Love Jr., Douglas County Commissioner Roger Garcia and Omaha City Councilperson LaVonya Goodwin. The Omaha City Council unanimously voted to rename the street in late July.

All speakers touched on the history Ewing made for the city with the election win, as well as his service to the community prior to his mayoral run.

“I appreciate the kind remarks,” he said during his speech. “Kind of trying not to cry here. You know, it's awesome because all I try to do is do what's necessary. Just do the work. It's never been about me. It's always been about you all.”

The Midwest Newsroom’s Nick Loomis contributed to this report.