Downtown Fargo: an urban-infill competition

The Fargo metropolitan area has a vibrant population of nearly 200,000, with an additional 30,000 college student residents. The community is known for recession-proof growth, a skilled workforce, a business-friendly environment, and an outstanding quality of life. Fargo epitomizes the Midwestern values of hard work, honesty and integrity.

In 1999, the Fargo Renaissance Zone Plan was adopted to help revitalize the urban heart of the city. Since then, Fargo’s downtown has experienced positive and steady growth. More than $100 million has been invested in 181 projects throughout the Renaissance Zone’s 20 blocks. North Dakota State University’s downtown campus initiative has resulted in several multi-million dollar historic building restoration projects that accommodate 2,500 students. A $10 million facelift of Broadway, the Renaissance Zone’s main thoroughfare, has improved both the vehicular and pedestrian experience with decorative pavers, ornate light poles, iron street furniture, trees, and planting beds. The Plains Art Museum, Fargo Theatre, and Fargo Public Library are world-class facilities located in the heart of Downtown Fargo. Plans are in motion to make the Red River of the North, located within walking distance of Downtown Fargo, even more accessible and connected to the city via riverfront de
 velopment projects.

A development opportunity recently arose on the US Bank block, located at the heart of Fargo’s Renaissance Zone. Since 1963, the 90,000 square feet surrounding the current US Bank building has been used for parking and concrete plaza space. In the fall of 2009, a dated parking garage occupying one-quarter of the block was demolished. Rather than see the city-owned parking structure simple be replaced, Kilbourne Group wishes to facilitate a progressive urban solution through this competition. Competition entries will be used to generate public and political interest in urban ideas that are viable, livable, sustainable, and beautiful.

With Downtown Fargo: an urban-infill competition, Kilbourne Group challenges designers to envision a multi-use urban solution that addresses retail, office, housing, parking, and plaza space for the US Bank block.


Website: www.competition.kilbournegroup.com