Amazon will build a 700,000-square-foot robotic fulfillment center in Papillion near High-way 50 and Highway 370.

The e-commerce company says the center is expected to create more than 1,000 full-time jobs, the Greater Omaha Chamber announced.

Chamber economists believe the facility also will support an additional 600 workers in the metro area. Its impact to the local economy, when fully operational, is estimated to be about $203.9 million, the chamber says.

“It’s no coincidence why Amazon chose Greater Omaha, and Sarpy County specifically. This is a region that works together and aspires to more,” Chamber President and CEO David G. Brown said in a statement.

Alicia Boler Davis, vice president of global customer fulfillment at Amazon, said the company is “thrilled” to be opening its first Nebraska fulfillment center and bring quality jobs to the region.

 “Amazon leverages its scale for good and makes investments to support communities,” Boler Davis said. “We appreciate the strong support from local and state leaders throughout the process, and we look forward to supporting the Nebraska community with great delivery options.”

Work on the site is expected to begin in 2021.

Once completed, Amazon employees will work alongside robots to pick, pack and ship small items to consumers. Books, electronics and toys are cited as examples in Amazon-approved talking points distributed by the chamber to the news media.

Employees will make at least $15 an hour along with benefits that include medical, vision and dental insurance as well as retirement plans and parental leave.

Papillion Mayor David Black said many people have worked to bring Amazon to Sarpy County.

“We are proud of the spirit of collaboration that brings new business to our community; and, we are equally proud of the talented workforce we have at our disposal to fill the technical positions Amazon provides,” Black said.

Amazon had already invested more than $96 million into Nebraska since 2010, said Andrew Rainbolt, executive director of the Sarpy County Economic Development Corporation

“Today’s groundbreaking shows a continued commitment to collaboration between Amazon, the State of Nebraska, Sarpy County and the City of Papillion,” Rainbolt said during a virtual event last Wednesday. “Exciting things are definitely ahead, and we are grateful to the many, many individuals who worked together to make today happen. We are beyond enthusiastic about the many great opportunities Amazon’s growing presence in Sarpy County offers.” 

 Gov. Pete Ricketts described the announcement as “exciting news” for Nebraska.

“Our state’s wonderful people and welcoming communities continue to attract major investments,” he said. “Winning the project demonstrates our state’s resilience and economic vitality despite challenges.”

 Sarpy County Commissioner Don Kelly said it’s no accident the county is the fastest growing in the state.

“It’s a team effort that requires commitment from the state, the county and the economic development community,” he said. “We’re proud to partner with Amazon and so many great organizations to bring Amazon’s newest robotic fulfillment center to Sarpy County.”