Fargo's development took an important step this week when city commissioners approved a downtown riverfront redevelopment master plan. The plan, some 10 years in the making, has the potential to transform the central city into a lively pedestrian-friendly district that will complement other central city initiatives, such as the Renaissance Zone and the rebuilding and enhancing of Broadway, which is under way.
It's taken some time to view the Red River as an asset. For most of the city's history the meandering river has been either an obstacle to cross or a flood threat. While those factors still remain, visionary development is taking them into account.
For example, the reconstruction of the Main Avenue bridge corridor between Fargo and Moorhead will result in a park-like plaza and bridge with lasting architectural value. Instead of merely a functional concrete road deck, the new span will be designed to be a landmark, a signature structure for both cities.
Also, the projects envisioned near the river respect the flood plain. That is, riverside gardens, plazas, walkways and other public areas will be designed to withstand floodwaters. Instead of destruction of buildings and public works in floods, the riverside development likely will require only cleanup and minor repairs after floodwaters recede.
In other words, rather that fight the fickle river, civic planners are learning to live with it and take advantage of the unique urban environment it affords.
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The river plan fits well with other major projects downtown. Among them, MeritCare's additions and renovations; North Dakota State University's downtown campus in the old Northern School Supply building; the revival of the Donaldson into an upscale hotel/restaurant/night spot; the commitment of scores of developers and businesses to enhancement projects within the Renaissance Zone; an expanded and remodeled Civic Auditorium.
And the Fargo riverfront plan complements the good work already accomplished along the east side of the river by Moorhead.
It all won't happen tomorrow. The riverfront blueprint is a 10-year plan. It might require moving Second Street to the west, and that will mean comprehensive studies to determine how such a move would affect downtown traffic patterns. Also, there are a few prime high-ground development sites along the river that are occupied by established businesses. Repurposing those tracts might be desirable, but relocation of existing enterprises will be no easy task.
But the city has set a direction. The emphasis on rejuvenating downtown is paying off. The changes in the last five years are nothing short of remarkable.
The Fargo riverfront initiative is ambitious and very welcome.
Forum editorials represent the opinion of Forum management and the newspaper's Editorial Board
