West Fargo is building a reputation as the hot spot for home construction, with 102 building permits, totaling $12.7 million, issued for single-family dwellings in the first half of 2001. The surge is a result of the area's growing population. According to the 2000 census, the city's population is 14,900, up from 12,287 a decade earlier, which is an average annual gain of 260 residents. Local officials also credit the increase in new homes to favorable interest rates, supportive city leaders and the wide range in home prices, from $100,000 to $500,000.
At the current rate, West Fargo will surpass the 152 single-family permits issued in 2000 and the 171 issued in 1999. One local contractor thinks new-home construction will remain strong for the remainder of the year, provided interest rates remain steady. West Fargo officials aim for at least $25 million to $30 million in permits annually. With nearly $20 million in permits at the halfway point, the town is well on its way to exceeding the target for 2001.
—Rosie Cataldo
