LISTEN: Jon Kram and Austin Morris’ conversation with The Flag’s Steve Hallstrom
FARGO, N.D. – Those behind a plan to build a convention center next to Scheels Arena in Fargo said a big perk to the proposed project is the land won’t cost taxpayers anything because of a partnership with the Fargo Park District.
The 86,000 square foot convention center would be built west of the arena and be connected to it. It would also have a 150 room hotel.
Enclave CEO Austin Morris believes the convention center being in the central part of the city at 32nd Avenue South and Veterans Boulevard is a prime location.
“Thirteen minute drive to downtown, seven minute drive to West Acres. Over 100 restaurants and a lot of hotels. I think over 1,000 beds. We have two interchanges within a mile. People can hop onto [Interstate] 94, 29,” Morris explained.
Scheels Arena General Manager Jon Kram said he knows his staff can make this project work since they’re already putting on many events.
“We’re already doing conventions, we’re already doing galas and corporate events. It’s really an extension of our current team which I think from the public’s viewpoint, they should like that. There’s no additional overhead costs that we’ve got to bring in,” Kram said.
Other locations the City Commission is considering for the convention center is near Brewhalla, the Fargodome and the Fargo Civic Center. Construction for the winning bid will be funded with a 3% lodging tax voters approved in November 2024. City leaders say it’s expected to raise $3 million per year.
