Omaha by Design names Jake Hoppe Young Urbanist of the Year

Jake Hoppe was honored with the 2024 Young Urbanist Award at the annual Laurels Awards, held on October 16 in Omaha’s Builders District. This award, Omaha by Design’s highest recognition for young professionals, celebrates individuals who make a big impact on urban design and policy. Hoppe was recognized for his innovative contributions to creating people-focused and sustainable spaces that enhance Omaha’s neighborhoods.

The Laurels Awards celebrate projects and people shaping the city in inspiring ways. This year, over 240 civic leaders, city builders, and community visionaries gathered at 1501 Mike Fahey, the region’s first hybrid timber building, to honor the winners. Since its inception in the early 2000s, the event has recognized exceptional efforts to make Omaha a more vibrant and livable city.

Attendees highlighted the importance of honoring young leaders like Hoppe. The awards also acknowledged other impactful projects, such as the Skate Ribbon at Heartland of America Park, which won the Environment & Open Space Award, and Dundee Bank Historic Renovations, recognized for Neighborhood Revitalization.

Hoppe expressed gratitude for the award, saying, “It’s an honor to be recognized for work that not only builds structures but also creates places where people thrive.” His work stands as an example of how urban design can positively shape communities.