Keith Harriger kharriger@forumcomm.com 701-241-5435
David Jones djones@forumcomm.com 701-388-1930
DESIGNER
Jen Phillips
Rory Jorgensen and Amy Zundel are sworn in as new West Fargo City Commissioners on Monday, July 1, in the West Fargo Commission Chambers. Alyssa Goelzer
Brooke Decker from West Fargo captures the scene from Junkyard Brewing during West Fargo Cruise Night on Thursday, June 20.
David Samson/The Focus
WEST FARGO — Cruise Nights in West Fargo returned this summer in June and July.
The next Cruise Night will be held along Sheyenne Street 4:30 to 9 p.m.,
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
2024 Cruise Night
By Wendy Reuer
Thursday, Aug. 15. The last Cruise Night of 2024 will be held Thursday, Sept. 19.
During Cruise Night, hundreds of classic cars, motorcycles and
food vendors fill Sheyenne Street from Main Avenue West to Seventh Avenue West in the Downtown Yards on Sheyenne.
For more detailed information about Cruise Night visit westfargoevents.com.
CRUISE NIGHT: continued on page 5
Calendar of Events
MONTHLY
Airport Authority
Last Thursday of every month, 5:30 p.m.
@ West Fargo Municipal Airport Terminal Building
Baby Boost Story Time (ages 0-2 + their adults)
Every Friday, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
@ West Fargo Public Library
City Commission
Monday, August 5, 5:30 p.m.
Monday, August 19, 5:30 p.m.
@ West Fargo City Commission Chambers
Library Board
Second Thursday of every month, 5:30 p.m.
@ West Fargo City Commission Chambers
Liquor Control Board
Second Tuesday of every month, 1 p.m.
@ West Fargo City Commission Chambers
Park Board
Second Wednesday of every month, 5:30 p.m.
@ Rustad Recreation Center
Planning and Zoning Commission
Second Tuesday of every month and the fourth Tuesday if needed, 5:30 p.m.
@ West Fargo City Commission Chambers
Ready to Read Story
Time (ages 3-5 + their adults)
Every Wednesday, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
@ West Fargo Public Library
School Board
Second and fourth Monday of every month, 6 p.m.
@ Leidal Education Center
Teeter Tots Storytime
Every Thursday, 10:15-11 a.m.
@ West Fargo Public Library
WFACP* Card Games & Whist
Every Wednesday, 12:30 p.m.
@ West Fargo High Rise
Monday Matinee
Every Monday, 1:30 p.m.
@ West Fargo Public Library
Visit westfargolibrary.org for movie listings
West Fargo Cribbage Club
Every Tuesday, 6:30-8 p.m.
@ West Fargo Public Library
Book Club
Every third Thursday, 1:30 p.m.
@ West Fargo Public Library
Novel Afternoons
Book Club
Every third Wednesday, 1-2 p.m.
@ West Fargo Public Library
Little Red Reading Bus
Every Monday - Thursday, 5:30-7 p.m.
Every Tuesday, 9-10:30 a.m.
Visit thelittleredreadingbus. com for location information
AUGUST
Summer Boost STEM Hour for Kids
August 1, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
@ West Fargo Public Library
Saturday
Senior Breakfast
August 3, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
@ West Fargo High Rise
Senior Crafts
August 5, 12:15 PM
@ West Fargo High Rise
Movie Monday –Cinderella
August 5, 7:00 pm
@ POW/MIA Plaza
Summer Boost Craft Hour for Kids
August 6, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
@ West Fargo Public Library
Night to Unite
August 6, 5:00 PM
@ Elmwood (South) Park
English
Conversation Circle
August 6, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
@ West Fargo Public Library
Job Service ND Available for Walk Ins
August 14, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
@ West Fargo Public Library
Cruise NIght
August 15, 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM
@ POW/MIA Plaza and Sheyenne Street, Downtown West Fargo
Senior Picnic
August 20, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
@ Rustad Recreation Center
WFACP Monthly Meeting
August 20, 12:15 PM
@ West Fargo High Rise
Teen Summer Event: Wonders of Summer Art Party
August 7, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
@ West Fargo Public Library
Movie After DarkAquaman
August 7, 8:00 PM
@ POW/MIA Plaza
Summer Boost STEM Hour for Kids
August 8, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
@ West Fargo Public Library
Senior Soup & More
August 8, 5:00 PM
@ Blessed Sacrament Church
Writing Circle
August 8, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
@ West Fargo Public Library
Movie Monday - Luca
August 12, 7:00 PM
@ POW/MIA Plaza
Senior Birthdays and Bingo
August 13, 12:00 PM
@ West Fargo High Rise
End-of-Summer Celebration
August 13, 5 pm
@ POW/MIA Plaza
Home Fire and Life Safety Class
August 20, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
@ West Fargo Fire Department
Books & Brews
Community Book Club
August 22, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
@ Junkyard Brewing West Fargo
Senior Soup & More
August 22, 5:00 PM
@ Blessed Sacrament Church
Writing Circle
August 22, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
@ West Fargo Public Library
Water Plants Craft and Conversation
August 27, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
@ West Fargo Public Library
Senior Bingo
August 27, 12:15 PM
@ West Fargo High Rise
*West Fargo Area Community Program
Cruise Night
continued from page 3
A classic 6th generation Ford F-150 cruises through the West Fargo Cruise Night lot. David samson / the Focus
Getting a view from above of Cruise Night in West Fargo on southern Sheyenne Street at the Lights on Sheyenne. David samson / the Focus
Cars of all makes and models pack West Fargo Cruise Night on Thursday, June 20. David samson / the Focus
Car enthuasiats enjoy the perfect weather during West Fargo Cruise Night on Thursday, June 20. David samson / the Focus
Ava Neigel from West Fargo rides in style during West Fargo Cruise Night on Thursday, June 20. David samson / the Focus
Todd Berg controls the air ride on his 1949 Ford pickup during West Fargo Cruise Night on Thursday, June 20. David samson / the Focus
Over 700 cars and thousands of attendees jam West Fargo Cruise Night on Thursday, June 20. David samson / the Focus
Ramsey Hammer from Dilworth drives along Sheyenne Street in her 1998 Pontiac Trans Am during West Fargo Cruise Night on Thursday, June 20. \ David samson / the Focus
CITY INFORMATION
City of West Fargo awarded $23.8 million U.S Department of Transportation Grant
By City of West Fargo
The City of West Fargo has been awarded $23.8 million by the U.S. Department of Transportation through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant program.
“The awarding of the RAISE Grant allows the City to incorporate this critical grade separation into the 9th Street NE reconstruction project and greatly reduces the financial impact to taxpayers,” said Dan Hanson, West Fargo’s Senior Director of Community and Development Services.
The funds will be used to construct a railroad grade separation, or overpass, as a part of an upcoming 9th Street NE reconstruction project. The overpass at the BSNF rail crossing on 9th Street NE, north of Main Avenue, will improve safety and traffic flow for business and residential traffic in the area.
The 9th Stree NE project will include a complete reconstruction of 9th Street NE and 7th Avenue NE with improved pedestrian, bicycle, and ADA accommodations. “This addition to the project will greatly improve safety at this rail crossing and will prevent delays from train crossings for commercial and residential traffic as well as emergency responders travelling the 9th Street NE corridor,” said Hanson.
The 9th Street NE Reconstruction and Grade Separation project is tentatively scheduled to be bid in the fall of 2025, with construction slated for 2026. The project has garnered widespread support, with letters of endorsement from North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer, Representative Kelly Armstrong, North Dakota State Senator Judy Lee, Representatives Austen Schauer and Jim Jonas, West Fargo Mayor Bernie Dardis, The FMWF Chamber
of Commerce, Marvin, MetroCOG, and BNSF.
The project stems from a comprehensive transportation study conducted in 2019 by the FargoMoorhead Metropolitan Council of Governments (MetroCOG). The study identified the reconstruction and urbanization of 9th Street NE, from Main Avenue to 12th Avenue NE, as a top priority for the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area. In addition to the reconstruction of 9th Street NE, 7th Avenue NE will be reconstructed with this project from 9th Street NE east approximately 4,000 feet to tie in to 7th Avenue in Fargo along with a multi-use trail that will continue along the south side of 7th Avenue to 45th Street in Fargo.
Work is scheduled to begin in the 9th Street NE and 7th Avenue E reconstruction project area in Summer 2026.
Alongside the RAISE grant, the project has also secured a $9.60 million grant from the North Dakota Department of Transportation Urban Roads Program as well as an $8.8 million grant from the North Dakota Department of Transportation FLEX funds. In addition to these grants, BNSF has also pledged approximately $800,000 towards the construction of the overpass.
“9th Street is the only arterial roadway in West Fargo that extends uninterrupted from West Fargo’s northernmost to southmost City
Limits. Having this corridor improved to eliminate delays due to train traffic is vitally important to the overall efficiency of travel and will greatly improve emergency services’ response times in the northern portion of West Fargo. It’s a great project for our community as a whole,” said Hanson.
This project represents a significant investment in West Fargo’s infrastructure, promising to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and support the city’s growth and development.
City of West Fargo Labor Day closures and sanitation schedule changes
By City of West Fargo
The City of West Fargo is closed Monday, Sept. 2, 2024, in observance of Labor Day. There is no garbage or recycling collection on that day. Garbage and recycling collection is delayed by one day all week. The West Fargo City Commission meeting will be held Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024.
On Monday, Sept. 2, all municipal government buildings are closed to
the public, including City Hall, Public Library, Sanitation, Public Works and the Transfer Station. Public safety agencies are in full operation but the West Fargo Police and Fire Department buildings are closed.
For email or text message alerts regarding holiday closures and sanitation schedule changes, visit www.westfargond.gov/List.aspx.
NEWS AND FEATURES
West Fargo confectioner sees expansion as recipe for success
By Hemut Schmidt
The news is sweet from Cookie Krums Bakery.
The tiny cookie-centric shop is tripling in size, with owner Katie Krumwiede already putting on events in the former Grateful Cratefulls space next door in the Pioneer Building at 300 Sheyenne St.
Krumwide is turning the front part of the neighboring space into an event room, which can hold 20-25 people. The back part of the space will be used to expand her kitchen, so she can expand her menu to include brownies, bars, and even more cakes.
The current shop’s entry will remain the retail sales area, with a door that will lead to the event space. Krumwiede hosts a variety of
decorating classes and said she loves hosting events.
“I used to be a teacher, so I love to teach any chance I can,” Krumwiede told The Forum. “I’m going to be doing some more adult classes, geared toward the adult skill set. But also we’re going to be doing a lot more family-friendly events, like kids’ events,” she said.
Krumwiede also plans to rent the space out. She’s identified a lack in the marketplace for smaller venues for events such as bridal and baby showers and corporate events, and she will allow catered food to be brought in, she said. “This will be nice because they will have their own private entrance.”
CookiE-CENTRiC: continued on page (To)
Katie Krumwiede is the owner of Cookie Krums Bakery in West Fargo. She discussed her plans for expansion on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. Helmut Schmidt / The Focus
continued from page 8
The back part of the new space will also get a doorway so she can extend her kitchen.
“Our kitchen is very tiny, but mighty right now. And we’re running out of space really fast,” Krumwiede said.
The former fourth-grade teacher has focused on selling her signature stuffed cookies, artfully decorated sugar cookies, scones, some cakes, and ice cream.
Now she will expand Cookie Krums’ toothsome options.
“Love a good brownie and bar. We’ve been dabbling in some cakes every once in a while,” Krumwiede said.
been in business on Sheyenne Street for six years, now operates out of a warehouse at 176 E. Main Ave.
Krumwiede took over the new space July 1, and has been building tables, unwrapping chairs and painting since.
“It will be great,” she said. “Lots more elbow room and space for everyone.”
Krumwiede started decorating cookies as a hobby in December 2020, learning by watching Instagram reels. As she watched the reels, she thought “I could do that. Then I did. And I couldn’t stop.”
She went into cookie decorating fulltime in the summer of 2020, working out of her home before moving into Pioneer Place in February 2022.
cookie decorating classes. By the end of the year, she hopes to have four to five employees on staff.
“I definitely feel a calling, especially with my teacher background, to provide more family-focused activities, and activities for parents to have fun, too,” Krumwiede said.
She also believes the events will help her to be able to plug into the community more effectively.
“And that makes me really excited,” she said.
Cookie Krums Bakery, seen Wednesday, July 10, 2024, is at 300 Sheyenne St. in West Fargo. Helmut Schmidt / the Focus
A selection of stuffed cookies and other treats from Cookie Krums Bakery in West Fargo. Contributed / Cookie krums Bakery
August 9
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
Horace High School Activity Calendar
@Willow Creek Golf Course
9 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Bjornson Park Municipal Golf Course
August 12
Noon
Golf: G/V
@Jamestown Country Club
August 13
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@Bjornson Park Municipal Golf Course
9 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Jamestown Country Club
August 15
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@Osgood Golf Course
1 p.m.
Golf: G/V
@Bois de Sioux Golf Course
August 16
8:30 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Bois de Sioux Golf Course
August 19
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@TBA
9 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Grand Forks Country Club
August 23
4:30 p.m.
Volleyball: C
@West Fargo High School
August 24
TBD
Volleyball: 9B
@Fargo Davies High School
TBD
Volleyball: 9A
@Fargo Davies High School
8 a.m.
Volleyball: V
@Fargo North High School
10:30 a.m.
Cross Country: V
@Perham Lakeside Golf Course
11 a.m.
Volleyball: JV
@Horace High School
August 26
5 p.m.
Football: 9th
@Horace High School
7 p.m.
Football: JV
@Horace High School
August 28
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@El Zagal Par 3 Golf Course
9 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Edgewood Golf Course
August 30
TBD
Volleyball: 9B
@Jamestown High School
TBD
Volleyball: 9A
@Jamestown High School
TBD
Volleyball: V
@Bismarck Event Center
6 p.m.
Swimming: G/V
@Hulbert Aquatics Center
6:30 p.m.
Football: V
@Biesiot Activities Center
August 31
TBD
Volleyball: V
@Bismarck Event Center
9 a.m.
Volleyball: 9B
@Jamestown High School
9 a.m.
Volleyball: 9A
@Jamestown High School
Sheyenne High School Activity Calendar
August 9
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@Willow Creek Golf Course
9 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Bjornson Park Municipal
Golf Course
August 13
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@Bjornson Park Municipal
Golf Course
August 15
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@Osgood Golf Course
1 p.m.
Golf: G/V
@Bois de Sioux Golf Course
August 16
8:30 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Bois de Sioux Golf Course
3:30 p.m.
Soccer: B/C
@Sheyenne High School
7 p.m.
Soccer: B/V
@Sheyenne High School
August 19
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@TBA
9 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Grand Forks Country Club
August 20
5 p.m.
Soccer: B/JV
@Shanley High School
7 p.m.
Soccer: B/V
@Shanley High School
August 22
5 p.m.
Soccer: B/JV
@Sheyenne High School
7 p.m.
Soccer: B/V
@Sheyenne High School
August 26
5 p.m.
Football: 9th
@Sheyenne High School
August 27
4 p.m.
Tennis: B/JV
@Sheyenne High School
4 p.m.
Tennis: B/V
@Sheyenne High School
5 p.m.
Soccer: B/JV
@Fargo Davies High School
7 p.m.
Soccer: B/V
@Fargo Davies High School
August 28
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@El Zagal Par 3 Golf Course
9 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Edgewood Golf Course
August 29
4 p.m.
Tennis: B/JV
@University Courts
4 p.m.
Tennis: B/V
@Riverside Courts
5 p.m.
Soccer: B/JV
@Sheyenne High School
7 p.m.
Soccer: B/V
@Sheyenne High School
August 30
6 p.m.
Swimming: G/V
@Hulbert Aquatics Center
August 1
9 - 11:30 a.m.
West Fargo High School Activity Calendar
WF Park District Tennis
@West Fargo High SchoolTennis Courts
August 9
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@Willow Creek Golf Course
9 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Bjornson Park Municipal Golf Course
August 13
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@Bjornson Park Municipal Golf Course
August 15
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@Osgood Golf Course
1 p.m.
Golf: G/V
@Bois de Sioux Golf Course
August 16
8:30 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Bois de Sioux Golf Course
3:30 p.m.
Soccer: B/C
@Sheyenne High School
5 p.m.
Soccer: B/JV
@Sheyenne High School
7 p.m.
Soccer: B/V
@Sheyenne High School
7 p.m.
Soccer: B/V
@Sheyenne High School
August 19
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@TBA
9 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Grand Forks Country Club
August 20
5 p.m.
Soccer: B/JV
@Fargo Davies High School
7 p.m.
Soccer: B/V
@Fargo Davies High School
August 22
5 p.m.
Soccer: B/JV
@Cushman Field
7 p.m.
Soccer: B/V
@Cushman Field
August 23
TBD
Tennis: B/JV
TBD
Volleyball: C
@West Fargo High School
9 a.m.
Tennis: B/V
@Fargo North High School
7 p.m.
Football: V
@West Fargo High School
August 24
8:30 a.m.
Volleyball: JV
@Fargo North High School
8:30 a.m.
Volleyball: V
@Fargo North High School
10 a.m.
Cross Country: V
@Parkhurst Recreation Area
August 26
5 p.m.
Football: 9th
@Sheyenne High School
5 p.m.
Football: JV
@West Fargo High School
August 27
4 p.m.
Tennis: B/JV
@West Fargo High School
4 p.m.
Tennis: B/V
@West Fargo High School
5 p.m.
Soccer: B/JV
@West Fargo High School
7 p.m.
Soccer: B/V
@West Fargo High School
August 28
9 a.m.
Golf: G/JV
@El Zagal Par 3 Golf Course
9 a.m.
Golf: G/V
@Edgewood Golf Course
August 29
4 p.m.
Tennis: B/JV
@Fargo Davies High School
4 p.m.
Tennis: B/V
@Fargo Davies High School
5 p.m.
Soccer: B/JV
@Shanley High School
7 p.m.
Soccer: B/V
@Shanley High School
August 30
TBD
Volleyball: V @TBA
7 p.m.
Football: V
@Bismarck Community Bowl
August 31
TBD
Volleyball: V @TBA
NEWS AND FEATURES
Peking Restaurant in West Fargo to close
By Helmut Schmidt
WEST FARGO
Peking Restaurant, a fixture in West Fargo for more than 30 years, is closing.
The restaurant at 108 Main Ave. was the first Chinese restaurant in West Fargo, and has been a go-to stop for many in the community for take-out or a hot and plentiful sit-down meal.
The last full day of business in the tiny red building will be Saturday, Aug. 24.
The announcement by Amy Tran, the daughter of owners Phuoc Tran and Ai Shun Lin, came Wednesday afternoon, July 10, on social media, including posts on Reddit and on Fargo-Moorhead Eats, a Facebook page for local foodies.
“They wanted me to help them spread the word that they will be closing their doors for good after over 30 years (in West Fargo). Their last day is August 24, 2024,” Tran wrote.
“Peking Restaurant was the first Chinese restaurant in West Fargo and throughout the years, we became close to many customers in the community. Some of you treated us like friends and family, and my mom (the friendliest waitress ever) even remembers some of you when you were kids, and now you all have kids of your own!
“It’s truly been incredible to see the support and love for the business, especially back in the fall last year when The Forum wrote a review about them. They wanted to pass on their deep gratitude for your loyalty and friendship over the last three decades.
“If you have a chance, please spread the word and stop in for one last meal by August 24!” Tran wrote, with
The Peking Restaurant located at 108 Main Ave. in West Fargo will be closing on Saturday, Aug. 24.
David Samson/The Focus
an important addition, “If you do visit, remember they are cash only still!
Peking Restaurant got its start in Fargo in 1984 in a small space on Fargo’s NP Avenue near the downtown MATBUS terminal. The restaurant moved to West Fargo in 1985, Lin said.
“The customers followed us here,” Lin said. “Their kids were eight
years old. Now they’re 40. They still come here.”
Lin said her husband is retiring. She, on the other hand, said she may look to do some other work before she decides it’s time to retire.
“I’ll miss the customers — good friends,” Lin said between seating customers and taking dinner orders Wednesday. “Kind of sad we have to close.”
Phuoc Tran and Ai Shun Lin thank their loyal customers for their support of the Peking Restaurant in West Fargo. David Samson/The Focus
NEWS AND FEATURES
West Fargo hopes to reduce reliance on special assessments
By Wendy Reuer
WEST FARGO — West Fargo is considering changing how projects in its capital improvement plan are funded to cut down on the percentage residents pay.
City Engineer Dan Hanson presented the city’s capital improvement
plan, or CIP, to the city commission Monday, July 15. The plan outlines infrastructure projects the city plans to complete between 2024 and 2028 such as constructing new buildings, mill and overlay work of streets, sidewalk improvements and sewer upgrades.
“It’s basically a list of what we plan to do,” Hanson said.
Before jumping into the list of potential projects, Hanson said he addressed funding models the city has historically used for infrastructure projects. For example,
in street overlay projects, which reconstruct neighborhood streets, the city formerly assessed 100% of the project to the neighborhood where work is done.
Reliance
continued from page 14
Hanson suggested the city now cover 50% of the projects while the remaining funds are assessed to residents or covered by grants.
“One of the things that was heard loud and clear was the reliance on special assessments for the projects that we do needs to change,” Hanson said.
Hanson said the use of special assessments decreased from the 27% used in the city’s 2022 CIP to an expected 18% in the 2024 CIP. Mayor Bernie Dardis pointed out that the contribution of city funds increased in 2024 compared to 2022.
“By upping these percentages, there may be a few less projects we can do in any given year because we’re contributing more to the revenues,” Dardis said. “I think that is a positive place to be.”
Recently, a large project to reconstruct aging and damaged streets did not move forward
“One of the things that was heard loud and clear was the reliance on special assessments for the projects that we do needs to change.”
City Engineer Dan Hanson
because the burden on residents was too high, Hanson said.
Hanson is also proposing the city’s public works department help do some of the work of mill and overlay projects to cut down on costs. The public works department has helped with street repairs in the past. While the department could contribute labor to such projects, the city would still contract outside companies for project design and materials.
“Installing it is something that we’ve done very well,” Hanson said. “We’d only be looking towards assessing the material costs then. The neighborhood mill and overlays would be a lot cheaper
than what we saw in the past for those neighborhoods.”
Commissioner Amy Zundel said she liked the idea of using city staff to help cut project costs, but cautioned Hanson to be wary the city has appropriate staffing to do so. Hanson said the public works department would likely have to add staff to keep up with the amount of projects planned in the CIP.
For local reconstruction projects, where the street as well as utility infrastructure must be improved, the city would now contribute 70% of the funding needed with special assessments used for the remaining 30%. The city previously only covered 40% of local street reconstruction costs.
If the city completes all of the projects listed in the CIP over the next four years, it would cost about $228.7 million. About 84% of the planned funding would be used toward core infrastructure projects. The remaining amount is for other projects such as public works buildings, the library and information technology projects.
The projects listed in the CIP are not guaranteed to be completed. Each project in the CIP moves through the process of approval by the city commission individually.
“It’s a fluid document and each project is going to come forth on its own merits,” Commissioner Brad Olson said.
Projects slated for 2024 include the $850,000 fit-up of a new city hall, the $1.3 million street improvements and traffic signal installation at 23rd Avenue, $600,000 in citywide pavement and ADA updates,
$624,000 for LED streetlight updates, $1.5 million for the continued lagoon decommissioning project, and a $4.7 million alley, backward sanitation sewer repair project.
In 2025, the largest projects include a $3 million cost share of the 52nd Avenue South reconstruction project and a $7.5 million Westwood Neighborhood reconstruction project.
In 2026, the CIP includes $30.9 million for a Ninth Street and Seventh Avenue Northeast reconstruction project and $39 million for a Ninth Street Northeast overpass, which the city hopes to secure a grant and state funding to complete.
An $18.7 million reconstruction of 13th Avenue from Sheyenne Street to Prairie Parkway is slated for 2027 as well as construction of a new $22.1 million lift station.
Hanson initially planned to present the CIP at the commission’s June 17 meeting, but outgoing Commissioner Mark Simmons suggested it be tabled to a meeting following the election of new commissioners Rory Jorgensen and Zundel.
Commissioners did not vote on approval of the CIP plan Monday. Instead, Hanson’s presentation was informational only. The CIP will be brought to the commission at its second meeting in August, where the commission can then approve the plan.
Readers can reach The Focus editor Wendy Reuer at wreuer@forumcomm.com or 701-241-5530.
Isabelle Hogness of Horace is preparing to compete in the U.S. Paralympic Track and Field Trials in Florida next week for the chance to compete in Paris at the Paralympic Games in late August.
Ryan Longnecker / WDAY News
NEWS AND FEATURES
Horace teen training for dream of competing at Paralympic Games
HORACE — Isabelle Hogness is about to head out to Florida for the U.S. Paralympic Track and Field Trials. The winners soon head to Paris for the big Paralympic Games.
Track and field athlete Sam Winter of Des Lacs-Burlington-Berthold will also be taking part in the Paralympic Trials starting next week.
Hogness is no stranger to competition and breaking barriers.
By Kevin Wallevand
On Monday, July 8, the Horace 17-year-old continued her training at the Horace High School track as she prepares for the 100, 400, and 800 meter events at the track and field team trials. It’s the road to the big show in Paris this August.
Born with spina bifida, Hogness said that, for her, wheelchair racing is about “the competitiveness and the speed.”
“There are a lots of different obstacles in life that you have to overcome,” she said.
For years, she has been active in the local HOPE Inc. events like skiing, sled hockey, baseball, swimming, and even curling. But she has been competing nationally the last few years in wheelchair racing.
“(In) 2020 it really, really took off because I wanted to try something new,” Hogness said.
And she has made a name for herself for being one of the best in the country.
“Right now I’m just trying to do my best, and see how I do,” Hogness said.
One thing is for sure, she has proven to so many what she can do. And this is just the start.
CITY
INFORMATION
West Fargo’s Community Orchards Continue to Grow
By City of West Fargo
Since 2017, the City of West Fargo has been fostering community engagement and healthy living through its community orchard project. This summer, the City will plant its tenth orchard, continuing to build on the success of the existing nine orchards located throughout the city’s green spaces. These orchards are accessible to all residents, providing a unique opportunity to connect with nature.
Community orchards are sprouting up across the country, and West Fargo is proud to be at the forefront of this movement. These spaces serve as communal hubs where residents can participate in the growing and harvesting of fruit and find a peaceful retreat for relaxation. The orchards also play a crucial
role in promoting a healthy lifestyle, offering fresh fruit and encouraging outdoor activity.
“The community orchard program is a wonderful opportunity for residents to sample fruit from multiple trees and learn about all the different fruit varieties that can grow in West Fargo,” said West Fargo’s City Forester, Chad Zander.
In addition to their health benefits, the orchards are invaluable educational tools. They provide a hands-on learning environment for children, teaching them about fruit trees and nature. The open and accessible nature of West Fargo’s orchards ensures that all members of the community can benefit from these resources at any time.
The success of the community orchards can be attributed to the diligent efforts of the Forestry Department, which is responsible for their installation and maintenance. The department’s long-term goal is to have an orchard within walking distance of every West Fargo resident, ensuring that everyone has easy access to these spaces.
As West Fargo continues to grow, the community orchard project symbolizes the city’s commitment to fostering community spirit, promoting health and well-being, and creating green spaces that bring people together. The addition of the tenth orchard this summer is a testament to the project’s success and the city’s dedication to enriching the lives of its residents.
A map of the City’s Orchards and the varieties of fruit grown at each location can be found at westfargond.gov/ 816/Community-Orchard.
Harvesting Tip: Cherries, Berries, and Nuts are in bloom in the mid-late July and early August. Apples, Pears, Plums are ready for harvest in late summer and early fall.
City of West Fargo community orchard on Francis Street.
CITY
INFORMATION
City of West Fargo’s Boulevard Tree Requirements
By City of West Fargo
The City of West Fargo Forestry Department reminds residents that they are responsible for the care of trees in the boulevards adjacent to their property. City Ordinance requires property owners to maintain these trees, including guidelines on pruning to maintain a safe height of clearance for drivers and pedestrians.
Height Requirements: Tree limbs, shrubs, bushes, and plants must not project less than eight feet above the sidewalk surface and less than fourteen feet above the street or alley surface. This ensures that trees do not obstruct pedestrian or vehicular travel.
Pruning Obligations: Property owners must keep shade trees along public streets and avenues trimmed so they do not interfere with travel. Regular pruning is essential
to maintain the required clearance heights and to ensure safety and accessibility.
To assist residents with tree maintenance, West Fargo offers a complimentary branch collection service. After pruning trees, property owners can schedule a branch pickup through the West Fargo website. This service ensures that branches are disposed of properly and helps maintain the cleanliness and safety of public spaces.
To encourage the planting of trees in newly constructed home areas within city limits, West Fargo offers a tree planting program to reimburse residents who plant boulevard trees. This program is designed to enhance West Fargo’s Urban Forest and increase tree canopy in residential areas. A healthy urban forest not only improves the aesthetics of a
neighborhood, but also has positive environmental impacts.
Steps for the Tree Planting Program:
Contact the City Forestry Division: Property Owners should contact the City Forester at 701-515-5450 to learn if there is a tree deposit that was included on their property when the home was built. Properties must have an existing tree deposit, generally paid by the homebuilder when applying for the building permit, to qualify for this program.
Complete the Tree Planting Permit Form: Property owners must submit a completed permit form to the city.
Arborist Visit: An arborist from the Forestry Division will mark appropriate planting spots based on spacing standards.
Select, Purchase, and Plant Trees: Property owners must choose and plant trees from the City’s Approved Tree List. Forestry Division staff can assist in selecting suitable trees.
Inspection and Confirmation: After planting, property owners must contact the Forestry Division for tree inspection and inclusion in the city’s tree inventory. The deposit will be refunded after inspection and the next City Commission meeting.
For more information on tree maintenance regulations, to schedule a branch collection, or to participate in the tree planting program, residents can visit the West Fargo website or contact the West Fargo Forestry Division.
CITY INFORMATION
West Fargo Police Department provides safety tips for back-to-school season
By City of West Fargo
With back-to-school approaching, the West Fargo Police Department would like to offer the following safety tips for a safe school year.
Driving safety tips:
- Expect more traffic in school zones. Schedule extra time for your commute when driving through school zones.
- Slow down. Stay alert. Reduce speeds and take extra care to look out for children in school zones, near parks, and in residential areas.
- Always yield to pedestrians. Stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the intersection or crosswalk in a school zone. Watch for children walking to and from school and waiting at bus stops.
- Do not block the crosswalk.
Blocking a crosswalk forces pedestrians to go around you. This could put them in the path of moving traffic.
- Always watch for stopped school buses in the morning and afternoon hours.
- Always keep your eyes on the road and put down the distractions.
School zone driving safety tips:
- Be on the lookout for school zone signals and obey speed limits.
- Slow down when entering a school zone and obey all traffic laws.
- Always stop for school buses that are loading or unloading children.
- Be aware of and watch out for children near schools, bus stops, sidewalks, in the streets and in school parking lots.
Walking to school safety tips:
- Use the same route every day and avoid shortcuts.
- Tell students to go straight home after school. Do not go anywhere else without permission.
- Always use public sidewalks and streets when walking to school.
- Only cross streets at designated crosswalks.
- Look left, right and left again to check for cards before crossing the street.
- Always walk and never run across intersections.
School bus safety tips:
- Students who cross the street should cross in front of the bus.
- Students should wait to cross the street until instructed by the bus driver.
- Students should not approach the bus from the bus stop before the door is opened.
- Students should remain seated when the bus is in motion. Remain seated until the entrance door is opened.
- Outside, students should remain on the sidewalk at least 10 feet from the bus at all times.
These are just a few safety tips for this upcoming school year. The West Fargo Police Department will have extra patrol during school hours to ensure a safe return to school. For more information and to enter the West Fargo Police Department’s back-to-school coloring contest, visit westfargopolice.com or scan the QR code.
