Ceremony kick off groundbreaking of Norfolk's Heroes Park - KTIV News 4 Sioux City IA: News, Weather and Sports

A proposed landmark meant to honor Nebraska's veterans is another step closer to completion.

Various state and local officials gathered in Norfolk Tuesday for a groundbreaking ceremony for the Heroes Park at the Norfolk Veterans Home.

The park itself is designed as a place for use by all Nebraska veterans and their families for get-togethers and remembrances. The capital campaign has already raised about $1.5 million  and organizers say they expect to raise another million before the project is complete.

Governor Dave Heineman was among those attendees.

As an Army veteran, he says it's great to see the kind of support Northeast Nebraska has given this project.

"This is a powerful message today we're sending to our heroes, our veterans for what they've done for our country. To do a special Heroes Park, I know they appreciate it. As a veteran, I appreciate it," Dave Heineman, Nebraska Governor, said.

The park itself will feature a covered picnic area, walking paths and a plaza with memory tiles in honor of Nebraska's veterans.

Park committee members say they hope to have the park ready to open next year.