Downtown Framework Study: Sheyenne Street and Main Avenue Corridors (2010-2011)

Client: 
Joe Nigg, Community Development Planner
Fargo-Moorhead Metropolitan Council of Governments

Funded by a federal grant, the Fargo-Moorhead Metropolitan Council of Governments secured the assistance of Centro Inc. to develop a comprehensive framework analysis and report for the downtown West Fargo area of the metropolitan region, which sits at the crossroads of two major transit corridors. This study aimed to identify the revitalization and redevelopment potential of the area by exploring niche and positioning strategies, economic conditions, transportation and land use capacity and retail market gaps and opportunities through extensive market research and stakeholder outreach.

The primary goal of the study was to define growth potential and what the future character of that development might be to ensure economic competitiveness and continued vitality and vibrancy for the community and region. Utilizing a comprehensive team of select consulting professionals, Centro Inc. developed a growth strategy for the study area that defines a unique niche, retail and commercial growth opportunities, land use and density improvements, and the utilization of public sector incentives (e.g. TIF, tax abatements, parcel assembly) and private sector investment models (e.g. BIDs, CDCs, etc.) to revitalize an area that has seen little growth in the last 10-20 years.