The generosity and passion of a piano instructor for her neighbourhood are forever altering the look of downtown Ralston.

The late LaDonna Johnson left the Ralston Community Foundation Fund with a $7.5 million bequest, which will provide the Hinge Project—the community’s long-term economic development plan—some much-needed momentum.

The Hinge Project will try to give the neighborhood—which is only nine miles southwest of Omaha—a unique character. The concept originated from the city’s 10-year comprehensive plan, and it will include tactics to make the downtown more lively and appealing, such as filling vacant businesses, building more housing options and mixed-use developments, entertainment and dining areas, and new amenities for both locals and visitors.

Residents of Ralston were invited to participate in a vision workshop in February, which was organized by community leaders involved with the Hinge Project, members of the Ralston Community Foundation Fund Advisory Committee, and HDR, the engineering firm hired for the project. That conference produced a number of ideas that will guide decisions in the future regarding green areas, parks, streetscapes, and other characteristics.

Project managers are taking their duty to protect LaDonna’s aims and legacy extremely seriously even though she is no more.

Rick Hoppe, the city administrator for Ralston, stated that “LaDonna’s wishes are at the forefront of mind in every communication we have regarding the Hinge Project.”

According to Bill Haas, FAC chair, “LaDonna’s legacy will carry on forever via her generosity and her belief in the future of Ralston.” For our community, this is a game-changer.