The diversion project has been hailed as a success for saving money by buying grain elevators and a rail spur in Horace that it doesn't need. However, this has left city officials in Horace with a dilemma: what to do with abandoned grain elevators, which are icons of the town's agrarian roots?
The diversion project purchased several properties from farmers along the Red River Valley to build up infrastructure needed for the flood control system. The purchase included two large grain elevators and a rail spur in Horace.
Now that the diversion project is completed, these structures are no longer needed. Although they were once an essential part of the agricultural industry and played an important role in supporting local farmers, they now stand empty and unused.
City officials are struggling to find viable solutions for these abandoned structures. Some have suggested repurposing them into community centers or museums dedicated to preserving local history. Others have proposed turning them into art galleries, restaurants or craft breweries.
However, there are also concerns about safety issues surrounding abandoned buildings such as these – including fire hazards and risk of collapse – which may require significant investment before any redevelopment can take place.
Despite uncertain circumstances, city leaders remain optimistic about finding new uses for these locations while still respecting their historical value.
As Mayor Mary Lee Nielson stated: "We're exploring all options- we want to honor our past while also looking towards our future."