Update on Construction and Redevelopment of Historic Fergus Falls Flour Mill

A wave of industry has once again returned to the historic Red River Flour Mill located at 309 Stanton Ave. W in downtown Fergus Falls, as the iconic structure undergoes a significant redevelopment.

Construction and cleanup are currently in progress, focused on removing old conveyor belts and other remnants of equipment.

Initial work also includes asbestos abatement and general debris removal, all essential first steps in paving the way for structural alterations.

The historic Flour Mill is set to metamorphose into a 5-story boutique hotel, a project brought to life by a robust private-public partnership.

The initiative consists of private investors, $1.2 million in state and federal historic tax credits, a grant from the MN Department of Economic Development and Employment (MNDEED), and Tax Increment Financing (TIF) authorized by the City of Fergus Falls.

"The redevelopment of the Flour Mill has been a priority since the inception of our downtown master planning process five years ago," shared property owner Kevin Bartram of MBA Architects.

His firm is instrumental in the project, which has seen significant investment from him.

Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2021, the Flour Mill's designation has allowed Bartram to apply for tax credits for the preservation of the site.

In combination with a substantial private investment from Bartram, a $130,000 Redevelopment grant from MNDEED, and other financial incentives, the 30-unit boutique hotel project has shifted from the drawing board to construction.

The grant covers half of the eligible redevelopment costs, such as asbestos abatement and site demolition.

The other half will be matched through a TIF district, approved by the Fergus Falls City Council in November 2021. The balance of the estimated $5.2 million capital investment is covered through private investors.

Breaking ground this spring, the redevelopment's second phase will commence following the completion of initial construction and alterations.

This phase includes the addition of a 24-unit apartment complex complete with a parking garage.

This transformation aligns with the recent Downtown Riverfront development and future renovation of the former Dairy Site.

State Rep. Jordan Rasmusson, co-author of the Historic Tax Credit legislation passed earlier this year, praised the City of Fergus Falls and private developers for their collaborative efforts.

"The redevelopment of this historic site is a testament to the successful collaboration between public and private entities in Fergus Falls," he said.

The Fergus Falls Flour Mill's revival demonstrates a collective commitment to honoring the city's history while propelling its future economic growth and architectural renaissance.