UPDATED: Altru Health System commits $10 million to proposed Grand Forks sports facility

Nov. 7—GRAND FORKS — Altru Health System has committed $10 million to support a proposed sports complex near the Alerus Center on the western side of Grand Forks.

The announcement came during a Tuesday morning event at City Hall, which included Altru leaders, Mayor Brandon Bochenski and City Council Vice President Bret Weber, who called it "an exciting day."

"Grand Forks enjoys a statewide reputation for collaboration, a reputation built on strong partnerships between the city, the school and park district, UND and, of course, Altru," Weber said. "We must never underestimate or forget the tremendous benefits of having a Grand Forks-based health provider in our community. Rather than focus on profits, Altru looks first in a comprehensive and holistic way to the health and well-being of Grand Forks and all who live in our prairie region."

Forkel said an important part of Altru's mission is to give back to community projects that improve the health and well-being of the region's residents.

"We're very excited for the opportunity to partner with many community groups," Altru CEO Todd Forkel said. "I truly believe that (the) focus of health needs to be investing in health and wellness."

Forkel said the sports facility aligns well with Altru's vision.

"... It promotes wellness, specifically for our youth, while also serving as a vehicle for overall community vibrancy and economic impact. Without this project, essential services such as swimming lessons are at risk, and kids in our community have less opportunity to stay active," he said.

For its support, Altru will have the naming rights for the facility, to be called the Altru Sports Complex.

"We're super excited. We have a $500 million investment going up (in the form of a new hospital project) and this is a continuation of our investment in health care delivery and wellness," said Josh Deere, president of Altru.

The building still is only proposed and awaits the results of a citywide vote later this month. On Tuesday, Nov. 14, Grand Forks residents will determine whether to allow the city to amend its home rule charter to allow a 0.75% sales tax — which originally was created to fund the construction of the Alerus Center and is to sunset in 2029 — to be extended. As part of the vote, residents also will decide whether to allow the funds that would be generated by the tax to be used to help fund the construction of the proposed sport facility.

Voting will take place at the Alerus Center from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The facility is currently estimated to cost between $95 million and $115 million, depending on the specific design chosen. The main features of the facility will be an indoor turf facility and 50-meter swimming pool. There is also the potential of a 300-meter track to also be included, as well as pickleball courts.

Carma Hanson also was among the speakers at Tuesday's announcement. She coordinates Safe Kids Grand Forks and the popular water safety class that's taught over 20,000 children.

"Without this facility, we wouldn't have a place to host this class," Hanson said. "We ask for your support to continue this class."

In opening Tuesday's event, Bochenski said he couldn't be more grateful to Forkel and the Altru organization for "their community partnership and their shared vision in growing a safe, family-friendly town that is rich in amenities."

Bochenski considers Altru "a steadfast partner" in enhancing and growing the community.

"Quality of life is such a big factor when it comes to growing and retaining workforce," Bochenski said. "The Altru Sports Complex would not only improve quality of life for those of us living in Grand Forks, but it would be a destination for family sports and activities year-round."