Grand Island is the fourth largest city in Nebraska. Brand Island is in Hall County which is also the county seat. The community was named for the island in the Platte River. The community also serves residents in much of rural Nebraska including an area of over 20,000 square miles with an estimated population of over 200,000. Incorporated in 1872, Grand Island has a rich history reflected today in the stability of the community and the outstanding quality of life for its residents.
Located in the center of the State, Grand Island is accessible to traffic from Interstate-80, US Highways 281, 30, and 34, and Nebraska Highway 2, as well as the Central Nebraska Regional Airport. It is known as the retail hub of central Nebraska, offering lodging, dining, shopping, entertainment, service programs, and information to the 30-plus rural communities in a 90-mile surrounding area.
More than 90 manufacturing plants provide jobs for over 7,000 people, drawing from a rural population base of talented and diverse workers.
The City of Grand Island provides numerous opportunities for relaxation and family entertainment at City parks and recreational facilities. The Parks system includes 16 parks comprised of nearly 325 acres, as well as several mini-parks. Each park offers something special to the community including the amenities of: ball diamonds, bandstands, basketball courts, bicycling, boating, fishing, horseshoe courts, ice skating, playgrounds, outdoor skate park facility, sledding areas, swimming and wading pools, tennis courts, concessions, restrooms, picnic shelters and tables, drinking water, electricity, and grills. The state renowned Jackrabbit Run Golf Course, Island Oasis Water Park, Racquet Center, Skeet Range, Soccer Complex, and the new Hike/Bike Trail are additional examples of the immense investment Grand Island has made in local youth and families.
This replica Statue of Liberty stands proudly in our own local park, a lovely flower garden at her feet. She stands above Pier Lake, so people both above, on the grass, and below, on the sidewalks can see her.
Pier Park is located in southeast Grand Island, Nebraska. The park consists of almost 31 acres for many outdoor activities. The park is mainly known for its Skate Park with many types of rolls, jumps, etc. There are 2 lighted baseball fields, many play areas, 2 tennis courts, restrooms, and many picnic tables, with 4 covered picnic shelters. The Pier Lake is located inside Pier Park. The fountains located in the lake help keep the water aerated all year so the water doesn't freeze in the winter. Hundreds of Canada Geese, ducks of all kinds, find this a safe place to rest and stay during the winter until they migrate north. Many people come down to the lake to feed the ducks and geese, who put on quite a show for everyone. Kids under 16 and seniors over 65 can fish in the lake but must have a Nebraska fishing license.
Grand Island has 1 large indoor mall, multiple strip malls and plazas, a thriving Downtown with many unique shops, and small commercial outlets. Conestoga Mall is the largest mall and serves both Grand Island and most of the surrounding rural Nebraska population.
Grand Island has one of the best school systems in the state. Community support for education is strong, as evidenced by recent building projects, fundraising for additional computers and donations of special equipment for handicapped students. In addition, increasing opportunities are available for higher education. As of September 2000, the Grand Island Public School District provided 14 elementary schools, three middle schools, and one senior high school. Grand Island is also served by Northwest High School, Central Catholic Junior-Senior High School, Heartland Lutheran High School, four private elementary schools, Central Community College, and College Park.
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Housing Cost
Predominantly detached single family dwelling units, townhouses, condominiums, executive homes, and apartments available.
Average price of a 'Typical' house in Grand Island (typical is defined as 1500-2000 sq. ft., with a basement, 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, and 1-2 car garage)
Estimated median house/condo value in 2005: $87,900
Demographics
Estimated population in July 2006: 44,632. Grand Island covers 21.5 square miles. It sits at an elevation of 1,856 feet above sea level.
Zip codes: 68801, 68803 - Area code: 308
Weather
Grand Island, NE climate is warm during summer when temperatures tend to be in the 70's and very cold during winter when temperatures tend to be in the 20's.
The warmest month of the year is July with an average maximum temperature of 87.10 degrees Fahrenheit, while the coldest month of the year is January with an average minimum temperature of 12.20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Temperature variations between night and day tend to be moderate during summer with a difference that can reach 23 degrees Fahrenheit, and moderate during winter with an average difference of 21 degrees Fahrenheit.
The annual average precipitation at Grand Island is 25.89 Inches. Rainfall in is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. The wettest month of the year is May with an average rainfall of 4.07 Inches.
Information provided by idcide.com and city data.com
