Moorhead Community Center & Public Library

Catalyzing Moorhead’s downtown transformation, JLG developed a comprehensive downtown redevelopment program and pre-design that integrates an “all under one roof” concept for a new community center and public library.

Moorhead’s aging Center Mall infrastructure left residents without modern library services or adequate indoor recreational space. Multiple public and private stakeholders needed to collaborate on replacing outdated facilities with a unified vision for downtown revitalization—but coordinating these diverse interests while securing public funding through a sales tax referendum presented hurdles. The project required uniting multiple entities to work efficiently toward revitalizing the city’s central core while designing facilities that serve diverse community needs.

JLG strategically reinforced the City’s Yes! 56560 Campaign, helping pass the Sales Tax Referendum that financed the project. Working alongside partner firm Miller Hull, JLG led inclusive programming sessions with library leadership, community forums, government representatives, and local businesses to define a shared vision. The resulting 48,000 SF design creates an innovative community hub housing the Lake Agassiz Regional Library and Moorhead Public Library offices, community program rooms, an indoor play area, and a unique suspended walking loop. JLG’s approach transformed competing interests into collaborative momentum, resulting in a vibrant downtown anchor.