Plans have been in the works for years to relocate the McKenzie County Fairgrounds due to its current landlocked location and insufficient facilities for our growing community. Approximately 210 acres were purchased last year just inside the Highway 85 bypass southwest of Watford City to provide for a new location. In April, the McKenzie County Commissioners approved $40 million towards the project. Current plans for the first phase include a 30,000 square foot exhibit hall, 56,000 square foot livestock arena, and an outdoor arena with a covered grandstand.
Forty-two houses have been accepted into the McKenzie County JDA Housing Development Subsidy Program as of May 27, 2021. With that, $125,000 remains to be allocated out of the $2,000,000 in program funding. The JDA board has recently indicated there is not interest in seeking more funds to the program, so once that allocation runs out, applications will no longer be accepted.
The Veterans Memorial Park project continues on with the final phase of its plan. Phase one was completed in 2019 with 12 granite monuments containing the names of McKenzie County veterans, flags and recognition of the branches of the US military. When completed, it will also include a stainless steel eternal flame, more flags and benches. The park is located near the intersection of Park Ave E and and 2nd St NE in Watford City.
Over 900 students participated in the T-4 Event last week held at the Rough Rider Center. The purpose of the event is to introduce students to a variety of hands-on jobs to help them in their career exploration phase. Learn more in this news story from KX News.
Alexander has a brand new building in its downtown. First International Bank & Trust built a new building featuring expanded office space, drive up window service and an Interactive Teller Machine.
The Mandan Hidatsa and Arikara Nation now has a new first responder facility in the Mandaree area. The space serves both the Fire Department and the Emergency Medical Services. See this KFYR news story for more information.
