On April 15th, there will be a Public Open House at the Hjemkomst Center to learn about the proposed Moorhead River Corridor Master Plan. After the flood of 2009, the city of Moorhead initiated a number of flood mitigation actions. As a result, a large amount of private land was purchased and made public. There was a lot of citizen interest that the new areas have a public use. The Corridor Master Plan was the result of citizen input, mixed with technical expertise to maintain our flood protection.

How much of this will happen? It’s hard to say. I think some key things can happen this summer. People are already spending time along the corridor, walking or biking where there are existing paths. I believe signage will be one the first things you will see. That will help people respect where public starts and where private property begins. We may see some clean-up and mown paths to help us enjoy the area. I believe other things will depend on grants or efforts by us citizens. Trails have come to the forefront for funding in Minnesota, and it will be good for Moorhead to be a part of that. I hope you will be able to attend to ask your questions and share your thoughts. The plan will also be available on the City’s website.