Clearwater Named Nebraska's 2026 'Showcase Community'

Governor Pillen recognizes town's efforts to enhance quality of life and spur economic growth

Apr. 7, 2026 at 1:44am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A nostalgic, cinematic painting of a quiet main street in a small Nebraska town, with historic brick buildings lining the street and a few residents strolling along the sidewalks, capturing the community's sense of place and civic pride.Clearwater's revitalized main street reflects the community's pride and commitment to preserving its small-town character.Clearwater Today

The Village of Clearwater, Nebraska has been named the state's 2026 Showcase Community by Governor Jim Pillen. The annual award honors a Nebraska community that has distinguished itself through projects to improve quality of life and encourage economic development. Over the past five years, Clearwater has undertaken numerous initiatives including new housing, infrastructure upgrades, community gathering space renovations, and the expansion of its popular annual rodeo.

Why it matters

This recognition highlights Clearwater's commitment to community-driven growth and its successful leveraging of state and federal grant programs to fund key projects. The Showcase Community award showcases Clearwater as a model for other small Nebraska towns seeking to enhance their appeal and economic prospects.

The details

Clearwater's accomplishments include developing new affordable housing, improving its wastewater treatment system, renovating the American Legion hall into a community event venue, creating a veterans memorial park, and expanding its annual rodeo into a major regional attraction. The town also launched a marketing campaign to attract new residents and businesses, resulting in $10.5 million in private investment over the past five years.

  • On April 6, 2026, Governor Jim Pillen visited Clearwater to present the Showcase Community award.
  • April 2026 has been designated as 'Community Development Month' in Nebraska.

The players

Governor Jim Pillen

The Governor of Nebraska who presented Clearwater with the Showcase Community award.

Maureen Larsen

The Director of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, which administers community development grant programs that supported Clearwater's initiatives.

Lauren Sheridan

The Director of the Clearwater Economic Development Office, which led the town's marketing and business recruitment efforts.

Clearwater Chamber of Commerce

The organization that has sponsored Clearwater's annual rodeo since 1967, growing it into a major regional event.

Clearwater Community Development Group

A local residents' group that built and sold the town's first new single-family home in recent years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Nebraska is blessed with extraordinary people who step up to improve their communities. It's amazing to see what the people of Clearwater have accomplished together.'”

— Governor Jim Pillen

“'Clearwater's commitment to growth is impressive. The community has completed several major projects through public-private partnerships, while launching a promotional campaign to attract new residents.'”

— Maureen Larsen, DED Director

“'This recognition is a reflection of what can happen when a community comes together with a shared vision for the future. It truly belongs to the people of Clearwater, reflecting countless volunteer hours, strong partnerships, and a deep commitment to moving the community forward.'”

— Lauren Sheridan, Director of Clearwater Economic Development

What’s next

Clearwater's annual Big Rodeo event is scheduled for June 26-28, 2026, providing an opportunity for visitors to experience the community's revitalization efforts firsthand.

The takeaway

Clearwater's recognition as Nebraska's 2026 Showcase Community demonstrates how strategic investments, community collaboration, and a shared vision for the future can transform a small town. The town's success story offers inspiration and a model for other rural communities seeking to enhance their quality of life and economic prospects.