FARGO (KFGO-AM) -- Housing activity in the area is off to its fastest start since 2004. The Home Builders Association says 124 permits were issued through the end of March, that compares to 56 during the same period last year.
It's Moorhead's strongest start for new housing. West Fargo and Dilworth have also seen growth.
Fargo is the only city reporting a decrease in housing permits. Clay Dietrich, President of the HBA, says it may be the result of buyers choosing a town with more robust flood control and that won't see the major flood insurance cost impacts that Fargo will. “Each of our communities rely on one another. Many people who work in Fargo, live in Moorhead, West Fargo or Dilworth, and vice versa. The F-M Diversion doesn’t only protect Fargo, it ensures economic vitality for our entire metro area and everyone who lives and works here,” said Dietrich.