Fargo Dome Authority proposes $40M convention center with integrated hotel kitchens

In a recent meeting of the Fargo City Convention Center Committee, discussions centered around the ambitious plans for a new convention center, projected to cost approximately $40 million. The committee emphasized the importance of creating a high-quality facility that would not only serve the community but also enhance the existing Fargo Dome.

The committee revealed that there is a permanent fund of $45 million available, which could be utilized to support the convention center project. This funding could potentially benefit both the convention center and the Fargo Dome, indicating a collaborative approach to maximizing resources for community development.

A significant point of discussion was the integration of a hotel within the convention center project. Committee members clarified that both the hotel and the convention space would feature kitchens, with the convention center kitchen designed to accommodate events and the hotel kitchen tailored for its restaurant and bar services. This dual-kitchen setup aims to enhance operational efficiency, as the hours of operation for the hotel and convention center will differ.

The proposed convention center kitchen is expected to be around 7,000 square feet, complementing an existing 2,500 square foot kitchen already in the building. This design allows for flexibility in hosting multiple events simultaneously, a crucial factor for maximizing the venue's utility.

The committee acknowledged that the project is still in its conceptual phase, with potential adjustments depending on the type of hotel that ultimately partners with the city. The discussions highlighted the need for a Request for Proposals (RFP) process, which will guide the selection of the hotel operator and influence the final design and operational model.

Overall, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to creating a multifunctional space that meets the needs of the community while fostering economic growth through enhanced event hosting capabilities. As plans progress, the committee will continue to explore funding options and refine the project details to ensure its success.