Fairbanks City Council passes resolution for downtown developments

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) - On April 24, 2023, the Fairbanks City Council unanimously passed resolution 5062, stating support for development in downtown Fairbanks.

In a 6 to 0 vote, the measure states that the City of Fairbanks supports further economic development in the downtown area.

This is encouraging news for developers and other investors.

The resolution was introduced by councilwoman Crystal Tidwell, who was inspired by a handful of presentations made to the city council. The various presentations highlighted interest by developers to invest in Fairbanks and create projects that will help Fairbanks modernize.

One of the developers, The Bridge Foundation, is interested in developing projects that are called eco-villages. These would include multiuse properties or neighborhoods that are self-contained and sustainable.

Tidwell who lives in downtown Fairbanks elaborated on what efforts she hopes to see support for.

“I would love to see some new modern housing that’s going to attract people and once we have people, we can attract businesses and it’s kind of a domino effect,” said Tidwell. She clarified that she doesn’t want to put parameters on what projects might be pursued and that the resolution as passed by the council, is very broad and all encompassing. “We need so many different things...we want to support it all and we need them all,” Tidwell said.

Possible developments include businesses, buildings, homes and much more.

While unconfirmed, there are discussions that the Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly is looking to pursue a similar resolution or alternative action. Tidwell also said that she hopes the state will pass something or express support for such developments as well.

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