The proposed Renaissance Zone project aims to revitalize an area previously occupied by an old convenience store and two residential structures. The new development will include one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, catering to college students, young professionals, and others. This initiative aligns with the Renaissance Zone policy goals of promoting walkability and mixed-use development in the downtown area. The project will offer 18 garage parking stalls and 25 off-street parking spaces to accommodate residents and visitors.

A significant aspect of the project is the 15-year tax exemption structure, designed to foster development while gradually reintroducing taxes to the area. The exemption plan includes a 100% tax-free period for the first five years, a 75% exemption for years six through ten, and a 50% exemption for the final five years. This proposal, if approved, will be presented at the city council meeting scheduled for May 27, with construction anticipated to commence in the summer of 2025 and completion targeted for the summer of 2026. Strategic property acquisitions have facilitated the project’s advancement, which promises to enhance the corridor’s vitality and introduce new living units.

However, the site comes with environmental challenges due to its history as a gas station. Despite earlier assurances of contamination clearance, further testing revealed ongoing issues that may lead to budget overruns during cleanup. Developers remain hopeful that allocated funds will suffice but acknowledge the possibility of needing additional resources to manage the contamination effectively.

The EDA’s discussion underscored the project’s potential to revitalize a blighted area in need of investment. The strategic location between the emerging downtown area and the Minnesota State University Moorhead campus enhances regional connectivity. The project’s careful planning includes designs that minimize negative impacts on adjacent neighborhoods. The parking arrangements, offering street access and ample spaces, are seen as beneficial for accommodating visitors.

Another discussion point involved the city’s traffic patterns, particularly the one-way systems on 11th and 14th Streets. The anticipated changes in traffic flow due to new developments and the underpass construction have prompted suggestions for a review of these one-way streets.

In other developments, the EDA received updates on the demolition of the Morehead Center Mall site. The area west of City Hall has been cleared, with further demolitions expected soon, including the former United Sugars building and Allen Evans Bridal building. This redevelopment is supported by two $1 million grants from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.

Additionally, a competitive interview process led to the selection of Goldmark Commercial as the new real estate representative for Macara, following the transition from the current property resource group. This change is expected to be smooth, with marketing materials already in the works.

Further updates included a community conversation held by Senator Klobuchar at Swing Barrel, focusing on federal tariffs’ impact on local businesses. This meeting allowed local business representatives to share their experiences and challenges, particularly related to aluminum tariffs.

The EDA also participated in a Minnesota Deed brownfields conference, emphasizing the importance of contamination cleanup and demolition grants. Moorhead’s recognition as a model for other communities was highlighted, along with ongoing discussions with DG Fuels regarding a sustainable aviation fuel project. However, expectations for immediate developments at the Moorhead site are tempered, with a focus on future federal sessions for potential advancements.