of the short-term projects identified in this action plan will benefit from public input into the planning

Other recommendations

PlaceMakers identified projects it recommends the city take on sooner than later by dividing them up into shortterm, mid-term and long-term.

Short-term projects include implementing a Downtown Master Plan 2, finding a strategy for the lagoon development, defining the city’s economic development strategy and capital improvement planning.

The existing Downtown West Fargo Framework Study was completed in 2011. The vision established Sheyenne Street as a pedestrian-oriented main street and gathering place of the city along with improvements to properties along Main Avenue. The city has continued to work toward goals set in that study over the last 12 years.

“Most of the short-term projects identified in this action plan will benefit from public input into the planning stages for each initiative,” the action plan said.

In the next five to 10 years, the city should look to update its sign code, a growth area master plan, city codes and specific corridors, as well as increase coordination for space management. Space management includes a possible third fire station and new library.

The long-term goals for the city as presented by PlaceMakers are to continue a public arts plan and eventually update the West Fargo 2.0 plan, which was created in 2018.

The city’s zoning code has not been updated since the mid-1980s.

“Typically, your zoning code is the primary tools you use to implement your comprehensive plan when it comes to land use and development,” City Planning Director Aaron Nelson said. “Right now, we have a comprehensive plan that is newer than our zoning codes.”

Nelson said he plans to bring forward the PlaceMakers study to the City Commission as a whole at a later date. He is preparing to bring a downtown master plan to the commission in April.

Readers can reach West Fargo editor Wendy Reuer at wreuer@forumcomm. com or 701-241-5530.

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