The unfinished stage at the Beacon complex in downtown Grand Forks looms as a reminder of three unfortunate developments.

FIRST: The structure signifies the demise of Epic Companies, which promised great things for Grand Forks before declaring bankruptcy in 2024. Not long ago, residents were being told how the Beacon was going to transform the former Townhouse Hotel site with ritzy apartment buildings, commercial space and a hotel. The cherry on top of the sundae was the public plaza – a combination of outdoor gathering space, ice rink and concert venue.

City beautification money – approximately $1.1 million – was set aside to help with construction, but it was not given to Epic as expected because the company failed to meet a list of conditions.

Now, local companies are hoping to pick

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