25-04-2025
East Grand Forks Mayor Mark Olstad reflects on year of big projects during his first State of the City
Apr. 24—EAST GRAND FORKS — In his address to residents and businesses, East Grand Forks Mayor Mark Olstad reflected on the city's accomplishments and major projects of the past year.
It was a more casual event — billed as "Life Connected: A Civic Social" — than previous iterations of the annual State of the City. It was also the first one Olstad has hosted since becoming mayor at the beginning of the year, taking over for Steve Gander, who is now a representative in the Minnesota House.
Among the accomplishments Olstad highlighted from the past year included the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Red River State Recreational Area campground, substantial work on the creation of a railroad quiet zone through the city and improvements to LaFave Park.
"I am pleased to represent this wonderful city on the Red Lake River and Red River of the North," Olstad said. "Today is about getting together businesses, donors and citizens of East Grand Forks and Grand Forks in a more relaxed setting."
People from across the business community were there, as well as the department heads of the city. The event was held at the River Cinema, which Olstad also highlighted for the key role it plays in the city's small business community.
"Last year, they had 220,000 customers, which drove business to our local restaurants, gas stations and other community events," Olstad said. "They provide jobs to young adults and entertainment for the whole family. ... I appreciate them hosting tonight."
Olstad also shared that the Red River campground had its busiest year on record with 12,573 camping nights. The previous record was 11,731 in 2018. The recreation area also saw 20,632 vehicles pass through, and estimates show that 117,000 people visited the campground.
In the last year, the city completed a renovation of LaFave Park,
including a new boat ramp and improved accessibility.
The city is also in the process of revamping the playground at the Griggs Park Trailhead, which is near the park and is
used by families using the athletic facilities at LaFave.
"If you like to kayak, try out the Red River," Olstad said.
The rail quiet zone, a longtime priority of the city,
will likely be instituted beginning June 20, Olstad shared.
"We've been asked by many other people in the community to do a quiet zone," Olstad said. "Last year, we started that process, so hopefully on June 20 there will be no more BNSF horns going through town."
Looking ahead, the city is looking to movement on what is known as the "Simplot" lot. The lot, near the intersection of Highway 2 and Central Avenue, has long been a priority for development, and is currently owned by the J.R. Simplot company, but there have been discussions of a potential transaction.
"I'm hoping in the next month or so we'll be able to announce (plans for) this vacant lot that's been there forever," Olstad said. "We've been working with them for a while, trying to get them on board to have us take it over and have a developer come in and spur some more community and retail development."
