Alter Trading to Relocate Lincoln, Neb., Facility

Bob Ellis, general counsel for Alter Trading, says that over the past several months, the company has been in discussions with different entities affiliated with the redevelopment project. Ellis says the company is focusing on the former Lincoln Steel site in Lincoln.

Ellis says the city approved a bond issue to finance the project last year, creating a sense of urgency in the matter, which has been discussed for some time.

One advantage to the potential new site, which has been vacant for nearly eight year, according to local news sources, is that it is larger than Alter’s existing Lincoln facility. Ellis estimates that the possible new site measures roughly 10 acres compared to around 4 acres at Alter’s present facility.

Among the challenges associated with the potential new location is the need for a rail siding. However, Ellis says the Burlington Northern railroad will place equipment to provide rail service at the site. Also, a local press report says the zoning code specifically prohibits operations such as Alter's to operate within 500 feet of what it considers its "entrance corridors." Therefore, Alter is requesting the city amend its code to make the move possible.

A public hearing on the proposed zoning code change and a special permit application is tentatively scheduled for May 4. After that, the plan will need to go before the city council, likely later in May.