Moore Engineering’s Key Role in Bell Bank’s HQ Transformation

Change is coming to Fargo, North Dakota! For over 60 years, Moore Engineering has called Fargo home. In our decades-long history, we’ve had the unique opportunity to make our mark by contributing to city-defining infrastructure projects.

In 2021, when Bell Bank acquired the former Bank of the West building, an opportunity presented itself once again. Bell Bank’s massive renovation of the building will redefine the Fargo skyline. Its final design will resemble the chic, all-glass, skyscrapers that symbolize other American cities.

As an integral component of the project, our team is applying cutting-edge technology, decades of experience, and scores of experts to ensure the longevity of the rehabilitated high-rise. The beauty of Fargo will be elevated, literally. Keep reading to learn how our investment in the latest technology is adding an additional story to the skyline.

Shared History

Bell Bank is a household name and well-respected institution to many of us that call the Midwest home. Founded in 1966 in Fargo, the bank has consistently expanded across the region. In 2021, their growth came to a head by when they acquired a 12-story, 105,000-square-foot high rise in Downtown Fargo, ND.  

Constructed in 1973, the property included a two-level parking garage and a drive-up banking structure. To best serve its new owner and customers, the building is undergoing massive renovation plus a four-story, 60,000-square-foot addition overlooking Island Park.  

The history of Moore Engineering is, in many ways, similar to Bell Bank’s. Founded in 1960, Moore has decades of experience serving 130+ Midwest communities with critical engineering services. We’re proud to call Fargo our home and are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the renovation of Bell Bank’s new HQ. 

Moore Engineering’s Contribution

Moore Engineering was tasked with several mission-critical responsibilities throughout the project. Our engineers and surveyors have expertly provided civil engineering, grading and drainage, survey, and 3D Scanning services during the remodel. 

At ground level, our team of civil engineers and survey experts worked to precisely measure and plan the positioning of columns that would support the bank’s new multi-story addition on its south end. The tight quarters of downtown Fargo presented an opportunity to display our ability to perform in urban environments. Our civil engineers worked to develop water drainage infrastructure via grading.  

Thirteen stories up, a team of survey experts used one of the many new technologies Moore has invested in. Using the Trimble SX12 scanner, we developed an astonishingly precise 3D model to locate structural beams and guide the construction of the new floor.  

A similar technique was used to scan the adjacent parking garage Bell Bank also purchased. With the SX10 scanner, we captured millions of data points, allowing for a skywalk and additional parking level to be accurately developed. 

In addition to its technical expertise and decades of experience, Moore Engineering brings its unwavering commitment to quality and service. 

An Economic Engine

Moore Engineering is thrilled to contribute to a project that will produce tremendous economic benefits for Fargo.  

It’s projected the project will create over 200 jobs filled by engineers, architects, and construction workers until its completion in early 2024. When finished, the new Bell Bank headquarters will  be a major investment in Fargo, with more than 500 employees working at Bell’s downtown locations.  

In addition to the economic activity, the project will shape the look and feel of downtown Fargo. The new Bell Bank headquarters will be a modern, attractive building with a new public plaza to entice residents and visitors.  

Moore’s Commitment

Moore Engineering has remained committed to its mission of improving lives by building strong communities since its founding in 1960. For decades, we’ve proudly served thousands of public and private clients in communities across the region. Moore’s world-class team of engineers, scientists, surveyors, and specialists has successfully completed thousands of projects, supporting the civil, environmental, transportation, and water infrastructure we all rely on. 

Moore Engineering is proud to apply our decades of experience to deliver a crucial service to Bell Bank. We are honored to join Bell Bank and local partners to shape the future of Fargo, ND, and the broader community.