Tuesday, May 18, 2021
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It’s no surprise that Fargo is a growing community. The population of Fargo has grown by 19.1% over the last decade. A recent annexation to the city means good news for the Fargo Park District as the organization works towards meeting the long-term needs of the community through the construction of the Fargo Sports Complex. 

Construction of the Fargo Sports Complex is planned on 100 acres just west of Interstate 29, between 52nd Avenue South and 64th Avenue South once funds are raised for the project. The annexation of this section was formally approved by the City Commission on February 22, 2021.   

The Fargo Park District’s Fargo Sports Complex is a forward-thinking approach to overall community wellness in our region. The project will benefit more than 13,000 kids in our community in its first year of operation. The project will broaden the accessibility of recreational opportunities for both the general public as well as the wide variety of user groups and partners who currently are limited by mother nature and space constraints beyond their control. 

“I am incredibly thrilled to see the fantastic potential the Fargo Sports Complex will offer to Fargo’s residents and visitors. This facility will address a critically important and unmet need for indoor athletic spaces in our metro,” shared Fargo Mayor Dr. Tim Mahoney. “Community wellness is vital to the long-term blueprint of a successful City and the Complex will provide unmatched opportunities for the region’s youth to safely enjoy a variety of sports and activities.”  

“The Sports Complex is something that’s needed. It’s something that’s missing,” said Ethan Grefsrud, Red River Infinity Volleyball head coach. “It would take a lot of stress off the girls, off the parents, off the coaching staff. I think it's something that the Fargo-Moorhead area needs.” Red River Infinity Volleyball is one of eight user groups whose athletes are supporting fundraising efforts for this project

With the site identified, the Fargo Park District Foundation is continuing to raise funds for the Fargo Sports Complex project by seeking community partners. At the Fargo Park District Board of Commissioners meeting on April 13, 2021, the board discussed bonding needs for this project. The board adopted The Initial Resolution for the Issuance of General Obligation Park Facilities Bonds, Series 2021A, which sets the maximum debt issuance possible and establishes a 60-day protest period. During these 60 days, the public is encouraged to reach out to their commissioners with feedback on the project. During this time, administration continues to value engineer the projects and secure additional resources, which may reduce the final bonding needs.  

“I am sincerely grateful to the Fargo Park District Foundation for its dedication and vision to develop this ambitious and essential addition to our community,” said Fargo Mayor Dr. Tim Mahoney. “The City of Fargo looks forward to continued collaboration with the Fargo Park District and the Foundation to reinforce our position as the regional leaders in recreation, wellness and resident satisfaction.” 

As our community grows, the Fargo Park District remains committed to improving the lifestyle of the community through a comprehensive system of parks and programs. The Fargo Park District’s planned Fargo Sports Complex is a key step in addressing the community’s current and long-term needs.

Learn more about the Fargo Sports Complex project by visiting the project page here.