The area’s strengths include robust population growth and adequate funding. In addition, the economy is diverse with agriculture, higher education and business all being significant contributors to the local economy, Hanson explains. “That variety assists in the market maintaining consistency and helps avoid the ups and downs some other communities endure,” he adds.

“Key area projects include the continuation of the Fargo-Moorhead Diversion, which is a multiyear, multibillion-dollar project. Hector Airport will be adding a much needed terminal expansion and constructing a parking ramp, which is a needed thing given our climate. In the private sector, Bell Bank is constructing a major project for their headquarters,” he says.