Moorhead city officials are seeking the public's input on redevelopment options along the First Avenue North corridor.
The call for feedback from residents and business owners comes in wake of recent changes in the area, including removal of dilapidated structures and construction of the quiet zone.
The quiet zone, which bans train whistles through Moorhead, could affect commercial development in the area, city officials say.
There will be an open house on the corridor's development at 5 p.m. today at the Hjemkomst Center, 202 1st Ave. N.
"This meeting is to provide the opportunity for everyone to see different concepts and designs of the corridor," said Kristie Leshovsky, the city's community services planner. "If people have a specific idea for the corridor, they can write their comments down."
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Leshovsky said the First Avenue North corridor's focus stretches east from downtown to the U.S. Highway 10 intersection.
Leshovsky said input is being sought on improving the corridor's roads, parking and access, increasing transportation opportunities, and increasing business and recreational opportunities.
Acting City Manager Michael Redlinger said officials participated in the Fargo-Moorhead Downtown Framework Plan, which also
includes the stretch of First Avenue North. "We wanted this corridor study to determine how we
should move forward with development."
The stretch from Eighth Street to Highway 10 could also spur redevelopment discussion because dilapidated elevators and houses in that area have been torn down in recent years for redevelopment.
Council member and Beautification Task Force Chairwoman Nancy Otto said the corridor's zoning was changed from industrial to commercial use and several structures and properties were bought in recent years so the eyesore buildings could be razed for redevelopment.
A pair of rundown grain elevators at 1101 1st Ave N. and 1516 Main Ave. were demolished in 2003. The city paid about $700,000 total to purchase the elevators and land.
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But the land has yet to be developed.
Otto said a study is due next year on whether the city can build another railroad crossing in that area.
"We wanted to do a study to see if we can put another railroad underpass" in the area, she said. "I don't think another underpass would hurt anyone's feelings, but it's just a study for right now."
Otto said she welcomes other ideas on the corridor's development.
If you go
- What: First Avenue North Corridor Open House
- When: 5 to 7 p.m. today
- Where: Hjemkomst Center in Moorhead, 202 1st Ave. N.
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Readers can reach Forum reporter Benny Polacca at (701) 241-5504
