The City of Watford City has significantly advanced its Downtown Redevelopment Plan for Area 2 (North Main Street), the future site of the Main Street Square and a multi-level commercial hub. Following the initial visioning phase, the City Council has approved the selection of both an architect and a construction manager, officially moving the project into the detailed design and cost-finalization phase.
The redevelopment directly addresses the need for Main Street commercial retail space, along with a downtown plug-and-play outdoor venue that serves as the place where residents can gather, play, and enjoy events together. The project directly responds to resident priorities outlined in the 2024 Community Survey.
Project Process and Timeline Update
In September, following a formal Request For Proposal (RFP) and interview process, the City Council selected ICON Architectural Group to develop detailed designs. In November, the City selected Construction Engineers as the construction manager through the same rigorous process.
The project is utilizing the Construction Management At Risk (CMAR) delivery model, which allows the City Council, ICON, and Construction Engineers to work collaboratively to develop the full scope and detailed construction plans for two distinct phases: Phase 2-A and Phase 2-B.
By February 2026, ICON is scheduled to provide the City with a “not to exceed” cost estimate for the construction of both phases. Demolition of the three existing buildings in Phase 2-A is scheduled for 2026, with groundbreaking for construction targeted for 2027 or 2028, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony planned for June 2029.
Detailed Phase Breakdown & Funding Sources
The redevelopment of Area 2 is a crucial capital improvement priority, designed to create a destination hub downtown and generate additional property and sales tax collections.
Phase 2-A: Multi-Level Commercial Hub
- Current State: This area currently includes three single-story commercial buildings that have been targeted by the City for replacement, housing only one tenant today compared to six tenants 18 months ago.
- The Plan: Demolition of the existing structures will occur in 2026. A multi-level commercial building will be constructed, featuring:
- 5,000 sq/ft of ground-level retail space (available for lease or ownership), including new public restrooms.
- 5,000 sq/ft of second- and potentially third-level professional office space, with the potential for a business incubator cooperative workspace.
- Funding: The construction of 2-A will be financed by a 10-year General Obligation Bond, secured by oil and gas tax revenue (Gross Production Tax – GPT). This debt commitment will replace a similar bond used to construct the Rough Rider Center, which is scheduled for retirement in June 2026. The City plans to utilize up to 50% of the previous annual obligation for this new bond, and the remaining 50% for legacy infrastructure projects.
Phase 2-B: Main Street Square Urban Park
- Current State: This area includes four vacant flat lots that have been empty since the late-1990s following the demolition of former commercial buildings.
- The Plan: The lot will first be used as a staging location for the Phase 2-A construction before development begins on the 10,000 sq/ft Main Street Square. The design prioritizes ease-of-use for local event organization and includes a permanent, covered stage with integrated sound, concessions, utilities for vendors, and all-weather hardscape/turf finishing.
- Funding: Phase 2-B has secured a significant $400,000 North Dakota Department of Commerce Destination Development Grant. The remaining construction costs will be covered by a 2026–2027 community-based fundraising campaign within the community, soliciting private, corporate, organizational gifts, and contributions of in-kind talents and services.
The initial purchase of the seven Main Street lots and additional design services, totaling up to $1.5 million, are currently being funded by the Roughrider Fund. Established in 1998 as a 1.5-cent city sales tax, the Roughrider Fund is overseen by a mayor-appointed committee and is dedicated to quality-of-life and economic development investments, having previously supported projects like the Rough Rider Center and the McKenzie Health Medical Complex.
This ambitious project signifies Watford City’s commitment to fostering a vibrant community, ensuring economic return on investment, and building a downtown core that truly reflects the spirit and aspirations of its residents for generations to come.
Community Survey & Downtown Redevelopment Plan Results: https://econdev.mckenziecounty.net/wp-content/uploads/FINAL-Watford-City-Future-Redevelopment-Vision.pdf
For media inquries or more information, contact: Vawnita Best, Community & Business Development Director, City of Watford City, vbest@nd.gov, 701-580-1862
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOWNTOWN REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT