The History of Citizens Alley
A community-built transformation, years in the making.
2017–2018: A spark of possibility
Redevelopment work begins on the 1st & Central block in Downtown Minot. The untapped potential of the underutilized and blighted alley becomes clear: it could be more than a parking space - it could be a gathering place. The first major pilot, Gathering 1.Oh!, is hosted on the block; more than 1,000 people attend, along with local vendors, artists, musicians. The event sparks conversations about what a reimagined alley could become.
2019–2020: Vision takes root
Community members, downtown supporters, small business owners, artists, and local leaders begin providing early input.
Pop-up art, small activations, and public presentations invite people to see the alley differently - not as a forgotten space, but as a place with potential to strengthen community ties.
2021–2023: Testing, learning, and shaping the future
Pilot activations help refine early concepts for a year-round public plaza. Summer concerts, pop-up gatherings, and winter recreation trials show that Minot is ready for an outdoor space that’s active in all seasons. Enthusiasm grows, and the vision sharpens.
2024: The plan becomes real
The final redevelopment plan for Citizens Alley is completed. Aksal Group, redeveloper of neighboring buildings on the 1st & Central block, secures a Destination Development Grant through the North Dakota Department of Commerce, providing essential match support for year-round amenities designed for programs, recreation, and placemaking. Construction begins with strong local interest, artist engagement, and support from volunteers, neighbors, and downtown businesses.
2025: Citizens Alley debuts
Citizens Alley opens as a year-round public plaza - created with the community, not just for it. Summer brings concerts, art, family activities, and everyday gathering in the heart of downtown. Winter launches the Citizens Alley Ice Rink, complete with leisure skating, ice bumper cars, and cold-weather recreation that adds life to downtown even on the chilliest days. Citizens Alley quickly becomes a hub for connection, creativity, and community pride.
The Purpose of the Alley
Citizens Alley exists to bring people together. It’s a place intentionally designed for connection - across neighborhoods, cultures, interests, and ages.
Citizens Alley is meant to be:
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A community living room: welcoming, inclusive, comfortable, and open to everyone.
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A canvas for creativity: showcasing local artists, performances, and cultural expression.
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A hub for healthy activity: offering year-round recreation, from pop-jet fountains and pickleball to ice skating and bumper cars.
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A spark for downtown vitality: bringing life, energy, and foot traffic into the heart of Minot.
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A platform for collaboration: where nonprofits, schools, businesses, clubs, and volunteers can gather, experiment, and create.
Above all, Citizens Alley is about joy, belonging, and community pride. It's a space built to reflect who Minot is - and who Minot is becoming.
Local Motives & Its Connection
Local Motives is the inaugural nonprofit operator of Citizens Alley and the heartbeat behind its programming.
Founded to support community placemaking, connection-building, and public space activation, Local Motives:
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Manages year-round operations of Citizens Alley
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Coordinates diverse events and activities including recreation, arts, culture, and gatherings that bring people together
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Leads volunteer efforts that support events, seasonal recreation, beautification, and hands-on community involvement
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Welcomes support from donors and partners through sponsorships, grants, and community-driven giving opportunities
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Collaborates with artists, businesses, and local partners to ensure Citizens Alley reflects the people and stories of Minot
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Stewards the long-term vision for an inclusive, vibrant, and people-centered downtown
Citizens Alley is Local Motives’ flagship project - a living expression of the nonprofit’s mission to enhance the vitality and vibrancy of downtown Minot. Learn more about Local Motives here.