FARGO (KFGO-AM) -- For the second year running, new housing starts in Fargo-Moorhead and the surrounding area set another record.
The Homebuilders Association of Fargo-Moorhead reports that there were 935 projects with a total value of $663-million. That's a 15% increase from 2012.
Association President Carlita Dietz says the low unemployment rate, good paying jobs and people returning to the area are all factors.
With little threat of flooding, she says the association's 800 members are looking forward to another solid year.
Dietz is pleased that congress will likely delay substantial increases in flood insurance rates. Long-term, the association is still hopeful that permanent flood protection will become a reality.