More than 50 community stakeholders including city officials, business owners and students met with Bismarck Mayor Steve Bakken, Gov. Burgum, Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford and several cabinet members to host a community listening session Thursday at Juniper Workantile in downtown Bismarck. During the Main Street ND Initiative session participants highlighted positive developments, opportunities for improvement, and ongoing economic development in Bismarck.
The city’s Community Development Department is carrying out a plan adopted by the City Commission to facilitate high-quality infill and redevelopment, applying the principles of smart, efficient community infrastructure. This involves commitment to downtown initiatives, such as the Renaissance Zone program, that have a proven record of success, as well as an evaluation of new opportunities, such as the revitalization of transitioning industrial areas near the downtown. Infill that occurs in Bismarck benefits all taxpayers by allowing efficient use of public facilities and services, and strategic infrastructure investments, such as the conversion of Main Avenue from four lanes to three lanes, creating the safe and vibrant environment necessary for continued economic development of the corridor.
Infill projects underway include a proposed mixed-use residential and retail building on Main Avenue in downtown Bismarck. The developer, Denizen Partners, recently received approval from the Renaissance Zone Authority and will come before the City Commission for final approval. First International Bank & Trust, completed a mixed use development at the intersection of State Street and Divide Avenue in Bismarck, infilling existing space that was vacant for several years, with a financial institution, office spaces and a restaurant with a microbrewery. A second phase is expected in the future.
During his visit, Gov. Burgum said that Bismarck is a great city and has the opportunity to take it to the "next level.” “By working to create a smart, healthy city, Bismarck can attract and retain the workforce needed to continue expanding its economy, improving the quality of life for all of its citizens,” said Burgum. He encouraged continued collaboration between the city, schools and parks and recreation. Mayor Bakken expressed appreciation to the Governor and his staff, community stakeholders, students and city staff for their commitment and the open exchange of ideas provided during the listening session.
The Main Street Initiative is intended to assist engaged communities become even stronger, increasing the quality of like for all North Dakotans. The Main Street Initiative is based on three pillars: healthy, vibrant communities, a skilled 21st century workforce and smart, efficient infrastructure.