The small city of McCook in southwest Nebraska has recently gained national attention due to the conversion of its Work Ethic Camp into an ICE detention facility. However, local leaders emphasize that this change represents just one aspect of a broader narrative centered on community resilience and economic advancement.
Residents and officials highlight a strong sense of unity as a driving force behind the city’s progress. Sarah Schneider, director of the McCook Chamber of Commerce, noted that the tight-knit nature of the community has fostered initiatives ranging from the renovation of the YMCA to the development of a Downtown Creative Arts District. She also pointed to a growing number of former residents returning, drawn by the opportunity to raise families and contribute to local growth.
This collaborative spirit has helped position McCook as a regional hub for commerce and services. People from surrounding areas regularly travel to the city for shopping, dining, and other amenities. City Manager Nate Schneider expressed optimism about future development, including potential expansions in retail, hospitality, and food services. He also emphasized the importance of attracting young professionals who bring fresh ideas from their experiences in larger urban centers.
Rooted in a rich history—including ties to four former Nebraska governors—McCook continues to build on its legacy while embracing new opportunities. With multiple projects underway, the community is focused on sustainable growth and long-term vitality.
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McCook thrives beyond headlines, embraces economic growth
NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (KNOP) – The southwest Nebraska community of McCook has drawn significant attention recently with the transformation of its Work Ethic Camp into an ICE Detention Facility. n nHowever, for residents, that pivotal shift is just one part of a much larger story of resilience, community pride and robust economic development. n n“This community comes together. When the community comes together, some fantastic things have been happening, whether it’s the YMCA and its renovation or the Downtown Creative Arts District. It’s that close-knit community. I’ve seen a lot of returners come back to McCook. They have a dream and want to raise a family; they come here and bring that importance to us,” said Sarah Schneider, director of the McCook Chamber of Commerce. n nThis strong sense of community and the dedication of its residents have allowed McCook to flourish not just as a hometown but as a vital regional hub. This collaborative spirit underpins the city’s role as a central point for essential services and commerce across southwest Nebraska and beyond. n n“People make the trip to McCook to go shopping to eat. We try to build off that and make sure there are experiences for them. We are excited to continue to see that hub grow,” Schneider said. n nMcCook’s enduring strength and its role as a regional center are deeply rooted in its past, a history marked by notable figures, including four Nebraska governors who hailed from the very community. n n“When you have the young people return, it sets us apart. They want to see the community thrive. They bring back ideas from college or from living in the city. For shopping, we are excited to see more come in and some more dining and hotels for sure,” said McCook City Manager Nate Schneider. n nThe community of McCook is buzzing with new initiatives and growth, demonstrating that life in McCook is not just continuing but thriving, embracing its future with an unwavering spirit. n nClick here to subscribe to our KNOP News 2 daily digest and breaking news alerts delivered straight to your email inbox.