The Wausa Development Corporation (WDC), established on March 22, 1968 by visionary leaders Dr. Richard L. Tollefson, Gerald E. Gunderson, Norm Creutz, and Don C. Pfeil, has been a driving force in fostering economic growth and prosperity in the Village of Wausa.
Functioning as a non-profit 501C organization, the WDC comprises individuals deeply invested in the welfare of their community. Throughout its history, the corporation has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at attracting businesses and fostering development within Wausa. The current president of the organization, Jordan Johnson, points to the call center as one of its biggest success stories.
More recently, The WDC was awarded Rural Workforce House Grants (RWHG) through the state of NE economic development. Johnson explains, “We received $135,000 of funds from Commercial State Bank, Wausa Community Foundation, and the WDC, and that money was matched 2:1 through this grant of $215,000 for a total of $350,000 to use for building houses and remodeling dilapidated houses.”
These obtained funds will be used to further the progress of the development lots now known as the South Addition. Johnson explains how the idea for the new development lots was conceived.
“The development of existing lots in Wausa, now known as the South Addition to the Original Town of Wausa, came about after lengthy discussion among business owners and contractors on building new homes in Wausa. Concerns were that building on existing lots or raising certain existing homes for a lot for new home construction could many times mean having a new home next to a home of far less value creating a potential valuation problem. The group felt it was in the best interest of the community to have a new development area to build all new construction, resulting in the development of the South Addition to Wausa.”
The lots were developed in 2014 after the land was purchased from CountrySide Villa. Essential infrastructure such as sewer and water was then provided by the Village of Wausa for easy utility hook up for new home owners. These lots offer an attractive opportunity for prospective homeowners seeking a convenient and well-equipped location for their new residences.
Since its inception, the South Addition has seen significant uptake. With 12 lots fully developed and primed for construction, two properties have already been completed, and an additional three single-family homes commenced construction in 2023. Among these, two are private builds, while one is a speculative house funded by the WDC through the RWHG program. With only six lots remaining, the South Addition continues to draw interest from individuals eager to be part of Wausa’s vibrant community.
The WDC hopes to start on construction for another spec house once the first is sold and to continue that pattern until funds are exhausted.
Prospective buyers considering the South Addition can expect competitive pricing for the lots, which are offered below market rates compared to neighboring communities. Moreover, the provision of paved streets, curb and gutter infrastructure, and readily available utilities minimizes initial construction costs, making it an attractive proposition for those looking to build their dream homes.
It is necessary to note that regulations in the form of covenants govern the development, ensuring the preservation of neighborhood aesthetics and standards.
Buy a lot, build a house, and shop local. Wausa depends on you! For those interested in more information regarding the speculative house or empty lots, please contact Jordan Johnson at 402.586.2266.
