A focal point of the meeting was the presentation and subsequent approval of the Fifteenth Avenue corridor study. This study, presented by Scott Middaugh from KLJ, was commissioned to evaluate the corridor stretching from County Road 9 to County Road 11, as the need for enhanced east-west connectivity in the metro area had been previously identified. The corridor, which serves as a link between Fargo and I-29, is expected to become increasingly vital as the metro region expands.

The study explored the current state of the gravel road, which spans three townships and is maintained through agreements with Clay County, Dilworth, and Moorhead. Projections were made for future traffic volumes, with scenarios ranging from low to high, all concluding that a single lane in each direction, supplemented by turn lanes, would suffice.

Ownership and responsibility for the roadway were key discussion points. Current maintenance falls to the townships, but future ownership may transition to the city of Dilworth or Clay County, depending on the development. The study’s recommendations included establishing a memorandum of understanding to facilitate ongoing discussions about funding and timelines for necessary improvements. Public feedback highlighted interest in pedestrian facilities, though concerns about property impacts and costs were also raised.

The council also deliberated on the preliminary plat for the Red River Valley Cooperative Power Association’s proposed 20-acre subdivision at the intersection of 34th Street and County Road 18. The subdivision includes a 15-acre lot for the cooperative and an additional five-acre tract for another commercial entity, potentially Resco, a supplier of electric utility equipment. The planning commission had unanimously supported the plat, and the council approved it without opposition.

Concerns regarding environmental impacts, such as wellhead protection and fuel storage, were addressed. The new site was deemed safe from protected areas, and the design of the development aimed to mitigate previous scrutiny related to above-ground fuel tanks. The council noted that the area could evolve into a light industrial corridor, aligning with the city’s comprehensive plan and facilitating future growth.

In addition to infrastructure developments, the council approved the hiring of Zurburg Architects for the community center project. Following interviews with multiple firms, Zurburg was recommended due to their expertise and commitment to engaging with the community. Plans for public involvement in the project were emphasized, with a focus on creating a design that reflects community needs and aspirations.

The Heartland Trail’s integration into the Fifteenth Avenue project was also discussed, with potential funding applications suggesting its inclusion. While the current plan does not feature the trail, there is optimism for its future designation along the corridor. The council expressed support for the project, intending to present it to the Metro Council of Governments for further consideration.

Another resolution involved the conversion of a juvenile detention center into a psychiatric residential treatment facility. This initiative, spearheaded by Commissioner Jenny Mojo, aims to repurpose the existing structure to reduce costs, with estimated expenses around $25 to $26 million. The council expressed support for the plan, highlighting the involvement of local leadership and the need for adequate funding amidst current healthcare demands.