VALENTINE, Neb. — Valentine city leaders and developers are laying the groundwork for new growth.

At Thursday’s city council meeting, developer Josh Delaney outlined plans for the D Dub subdivision along Highway 20, located across from the Trade Winds Motel. Delaney told the council he has already sold one lot to a new business expected to bring about 10 employees to town. A smaller lot remains for sale, as well as a larger parcel measuring more than 10 acres.

During the same meeting, the council approved a contract for an interceptor sewer project—an infrastructure upgrade that members acknowledged has been delayed for years because of rising costs. Although bids came in higher than hoped, the council ultimately voted to move forward.

Council member Neil Wescott argued the project is long overdue.

The interceptor line would eliminate lift stations and periodic sewer issues along Highway 20, along with open the door for additional development, including a proposed subdivision across Green Street from Valentine High School and potential expansion at the Cherry County Fairgrounds. City officials say those projects are essential to addressing the town’s housing shortage.

City Council President Kyle Arganbright said businesses can’t grow without workers, and workers can’t stay without available housing.

As News Channel Nebraska previously reported, another housing project is already in the works. A trailer park near Thacher and Donoher Streets is being redeveloped by Gene and Catherine Darnell into 10 residential lots as part of broader efforts to increase housing options in Valentine.