The implosion of the Lashkowitz High-Rise is scheduled for 7 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023. To ensure the safety of the public, the Fargo Fire Department will order a temporary evacuation of the area, known as the “Exclusion Zone.” The attached map demonstrates the location of the Exclusion Zone. All individuals inside the Exclusion Zone must abide by the evacuation. Failure to comply with this order is an infraction that carries a maximum penalty of a $1,000 fine. It is expected the order will be in place from 5:30 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. The process may conclude before 9:30 a.m., which will allow residents to return to their homes.
The Fargo Housing & Redevelopment Authority (FHRA) contracted with Target Contractors of Ladson, South Carolina, which has assembled a group of highly qualified experts who have developed a plan to conduct the controlled implosion of the High-Rise at 101 2nd St. S. The blasting contractor has over 40 years of worldwide experience demolishing buildings.
What to Expect During Demolition:
Street Closures
Streets around the High-Rise will be closed to traffic starting at 5:30 a.m. Streets will reopen once cleanup is complete. The closures include:
• 4th St. S. from Main Ave. to Prairie St. John’s
• 2nd St. S. from the Main Ave. roundabout to 4th St. S.
• Main Ave. from 4th St. S. to the roundabout
Sound
The public should expect the sound of the explosives detonation to be very loud, like the sound of a firework. The best way to protect yourself is to stay inside until the event is over. All individuals near the Exclusion Zone who must be outside, including workers, should wear earplugs. There is a small possibility that windows and other glass in the Exclusion Zone will break. The implosion team will use airhorn signals:
• One long signal: Preparing to blast (clear the blast area)
• Two short signals: Ready to blast (after the area is confirmed to be clear)
• Three short signals: All clear
Air Quality
FHRA has contracted with an environmental engineering consultant to monitor air quality. The implosion may create dust. If you have breathing problems and live near the Exclusion Zone, consider wearing a protective mask during the event. You can reduce dust inside of your home by turning off your air conditioning until the dust settles.
Viewing the Implosion
Members of the public seeking to view the implosion must stay out of the Exclusion Zone. Be advised that depending on the wind speed and direction, dust may reach viewers outside the Exclusion Zone. Viewers are encouraged to consider these factors when choosing a viewing site.