By Raeann Malmberg
Downtown Fargo is known for its historic district, unique shopping experience, and one of a kind restaurants. Downtown Fargo is a must see, and an experience no one will want to miss when visiting this booming city. The downtown area is not only appealing for visitors, but it is also an provides residents with a unique culture. The downtown area is home to many attractions and activities, however as the population of Fargo increases, so does the traffic of pedestrians and drivers. Many residents work, live and leisurely visit downtown so it is no shock that parking can be limited, especially since the city itself continues to grow.
Planning for something that can't be predicted is extremely difficult, even for a small amount of time like five to ten years. With the rise of the sharing economy autonomous vehicles, and the shift in preference for young adults and seniors to live in a more walkable community typically means a higher population but less drivers. Although the population in the Fargo-Moorhead community is rising, and the demand for public transportation is changing dramatically, the City of Fargo is working to develop a transportation strategy that will make it easier for residents to commute. Among the strategies include adding more bike lanes and enhancing the MATBUS public transportation system. Consequently, there wouldn’t be as much demand for parking spaces if there are less people driving downtown.
Andy Renfrew from Interstate parking expressed the challenges that downtown currently sees with traffic, “The biggest challenge we have is the perception that there is no parking in downtown Fargo, and then educating the community about the parking options.” It may seem as though parking is extremely limited, but Renfrew was able to provide information regarding parking in the city. Renfrew says the information can be found at FargoParking.com. Last spring, a new parking garage was opened, containing over 450 stalls, including 100 stalls for visitors. The first two hours are free, and weekends and weekdays after 5 p.m. there is no charge.
The downtown area is a walkable area by nature, which is one of the reasons for its popularity. One can walk up and down Broadway or Roberts Street and feel comfortable. Two-lane traffic, narrow streets, appropriate speeds, and on street parking create a safer pedestrian environment. “While I expect Downtown Fargo to grow, it is important that we design for the people that will be living, working, and visiting,” Renfrew commented about the theoretical idea of parking not having any more changes in the future.
While current parking can be frustrating at times, it is important to remember the options we do have, and how off-street parking can be utilized in the future as the population grows. The City of Fargo has recently completed its Master Plan, which outlines specific recommendations for parking expansion. In the plan it suggests limiting additional parking supply in the downtown core, and adding supply as the need arises in the periphery areas, two or more blocks away from Broadway. This approach would maintain the walkable charm we currently see for the downtown culture, while having the potential to catalyze development beyond Broadway.
The City of Fargo is planning for the future when it comes to parking. Downtown Fargo is a great area with a unique culture, that is fun for all ages. The population will continue to increase, but parking will still be available for residents and visitors. It will be an exciting way to see how the culture change will be as more people gravitate towards the area.
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