August 13, 2020

Kesler Breaks Ground in Downtown Fargo

Fargo, N.D., August 7, 2020 – Kilbourne Group has broken ground on a $20 million mixed-use project at 624 2^nd Avenue North in downtown Fargo. The mixed-use project represents the final phase of a public-private partnership designed to transform three surface parking lots into a 455-stall publicly owned parking garage, and three privately owned mixed-use buildings.

Kesler is a mixed-use project which includes a 2-level (one underground), 69 parking stalls, almost 9,000 square feet of ground floor retail for five new businesses, and 109 apartments. Early construction activity includes installation of an earth retention system, followed by excavation and concrete work.

The Kesler project is scheduled to be complete in the summer of 2022.

The project derives its name from the original Kesler block, which is listed in city historical records as a mixed-use block of apartments over ground floor retail existing until 1976. By 1977, it was listed as a surface parking lot. Nearly 45 years later, construction has begun on the site.

The Kesler project is the fourth phase of a public-private partnership with the City of Fargo. The previous phases included the seven-level Roberts Garage public parking, the mixed-use Roberts Commons building wrapping around the garage, and the mixed-use Dillard project to the north. Construction of these projects created a west border of buildings along Roberts Alley, which has become a favorite stop on strolls through downtown Fargo, filled with retail, restaurants, and outdoor patio spaces.

As the Roberts Commons and Dillard infill projects activated Roberts Alley north of 2nd Avenue North, the Kesler development will extend the activation of the alley south to 1st Avenue North. This urban alley will feature storefronts across from the historic Black Building. The block will be complimented by the Stone Events Center along Roberts Alley and 1st Avenue North.

“For 45 years, this site has lacked activity with people,” said Kilbourne Group President Mike Allmendinger. “We are grateful for the opportunity to work with the City of Fargo to invest in bringing new living and working experiences into this growing neighborhood. As a real estate redevelopment firm focused on historic renovation and mixed-use urban infill projects in downtown Fargo, Kilbourne Group aims to breathe new energy into downtown residential, commercial, and retail spaces, and the spaces in between. Urban infill is a key component to maintaining walkability and to the city’s revitalization journey.”

Project information is online at KeslerFargo.com.