Moorhead’s Skyline Set to Transform with New Development
Moorhead, the city known for its welcoming vibe and picturesque views, is buzzing with excitement as the skyline begins to change. The talk of the town is the 650 Block project, which is the first new building to rise above ground in the heart of downtown. Situated at the lively intersection of Center Avenue and Seventh Street, construction crews are hard at work installing prefabricated concrete slabs, marking a significant milestone in the city’s ongoing redevelopment.
A Mixed-Use Marvel
The new building isn’t just any structure; it’s set to be a mixed-use development. This means residents will be able to enjoy apartments on the upper floors while bustling businesses will occupy the first level. Developer Kevin Bartram shares his enthusiasm, noting that the construction has been progressing well, despite the usual hiccups that come with downtown projects. “We’ve encountered some old foundations and pipes underneath,” he explained, “but nothing we didn’t expect. Every site has its surprises!”
Bold Plans for Downtown
The 650 Block is just one part of a broader vision to revamp downtown Moorhead, which aims to transform nine city blocks into a vibrant mix of apartments, shops, and parking spaces. Adding to the excitement, there are other projects underway, including the paving of a new street and the creation of a much-anticipated public library and community center.
The first floor of the 650 Block will feature a parking structure, along with commercial spaces and elevators, all built from sturdy precast concrete. When construction moves up, three stories of wood framing will be erected above. The design includes two wings of apartments: one facing the lively Center Avenue to the south and the other overlooking the scenic Red River to the north.
Community Tie-Ins
Excitingly, one of the last remaining businesses from the Moorhead Center Mall, Downtown Chiropractic, will be making a move into the new building. Bartram is optimistic that the project will be completed by early fall 2025, ushering in a new era for downtown.
Street Improvements and Infrastructure Developments
Just west of the new building, work is wrapping up on the first section of a new road in downtown. Crews have been diligently completing sewer and water work and have begun pouring the road and curbs along a section of Sixth Street. City Engineer Tom Trowbridge expects that this section could open by the end of the week of November 18. “We’re lucky to keep working right now,” Trowbridge shared, reflecting on past winters when snow halted construction.
Changes at the Moorhead Center Mall
Meanwhile, the recently vacant Moorhead Center Mall continues to see changes. Several businesses remain, including Sharon’s Hair and Massage, His Styling Salon, and Moorhead Vision Associates. The latter is even working on a new facility in the Azool shopping area, slated to open in late November or early December.
The city has temporarily moved many of its services across the street to the old U.S. Bank building while renovations at City Hall take place. As for the mall, plans for the next phase of demolition are already simmering, with hopes to tear down parts of the structure by late winter or early spring to make way for more infrastructure and development.
Looking Ahead
Exciting times are ahead as crews work diligently at the community center library site, installing precast beams and preparing for further construction. The new public library and community center are expected to open by spring 2026, promising a place for community gatherings and resources.
Moorhead is on the brink of a transformation, and the buzz around the 650 Block project and other developments paints a bright picture for the city’s future. With the hard work of developers, engineers, and community members, it’s clear that Moorhead is paving the way for a vibrant and dynamic downtown.
