Files
Date of Award
5-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Architecture
College
Arts and Sciences
Department
Architecture
Faculty Advisor
Charlott Greub
Studio Coordinator
Stephen Wischer
Faculty Chair
Susan Kliman
Publisher
North Dakota State University
Rights
NDSU policy 190.6.2
URI
https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/policy/190.pdf
Abstract
Downtown Fargo is the city's cultural and economic hub, but it is currently constrained by a lack of riverfront activation and an outdated limited variety of building typologies and uses along the eastern downtown edge. The main issue is the lack of a clear physical connection bridging the infrastructure that cuts the civic core off from the Red River. This thesis tackles this problem by proposing a "Reconnection Framework" that combines reusing existing infrastructure, adapting to the harsh "Winter City" climate, and adding mid-scale residential housing, to expand housing options in Fargo downtown. The design proposal transforms the downtown riverfront, stretching from Main Avenue north to the Civic Center and City Hall, into a continuous, pedestrian-friendly public space integrated within the downtown urban fabric. Ultimately, this project shows how mid-sized cities can reclaim industrial waterfronts to build economic strength, create stable neighborhoods, and establish a vibrant, year-round community identity.
Recommended Citation
Al Nemri, Haitham, "Bridging the Urban Moat in Downtown Fargo: Downtown Riverfront Reconnection" (2026). Architecture Theses. 53.
https://digitalcommons.ndsu.edu/architecture-theses/53
ThesisPresentation_Al Nemri.pdf (56859 kB)
ThesisSupplement_Al Nemri.mp4 (203605 kB)