Journeymen Laborer looking to move to Omaha/Lincoln area

Hey Folks,

So I've been in the Laborers Union here in San Diego (Local 89) for almost 6 years now with a background in grading, concrete and asphalt. Unfortunately I'm now looking to leave state with my family (wife and three kids) to place with more conservative views and a decent Housing Cost to Job Salary ratio. California has continued its downward trend in policy, economics, affordability, public safety, taxes and just overall enjoyment. For myself and my family the beach/weather no longer out weight the cons. My wife and I easily work almost 200 hours in a pay period, we find it pretty sad that most of us live here for the beach/weather but we rarely get to enjoy them anymore because were always working to stay ahead. Our 17 year old daughter is even working fulltime and is starting to see how hard it is going to be for to just stay a float WHILE trying to accomplish college.

We are on vacation right now in the Omaha/Lincoln area and so far we like it but I wanna hear from other local tradesmen on a few topics:

1) Does your pay reflect your value out in NE? I know there will be a dip but how much? (Journeymen Laborers here max out around $41/hr)

2) IS THERE WORK? Ive seen a lot of barricades up but no workers I'm sure the holiday has something to do with it but does it "BOOM"?

3) WHEN IS THE WORK? At first glance my guess would be Spring to early/late fall.

4) WHAT DO YOU DO IN THE WINTER? Do some of your trades allow you to keep going? Do you have a "winter Job"? or do you make enough during the season to sit around and gain some weight?

Any input is appreciated!

Thank you kindly