Essentia Health donates one million for downtown Moorhead’s new building, ‘The Loop’

MOORHEAD, Minn. (KVRR) — Moorhead Mayor Shelley Carlson proudly announced on Thursday Essentia Health’s donation of one million dollars. The donation comes from their commitment in bringing together Moorhead for a lifelong health and wellness journey.

“Together, the city of Moorhead and Essentia Health envision a future where innovation, collaboration, and education converge to create a healthier, vibrant community that supports wellbeing. Their support for these projects reflects the belief that wellness goes beyond the walls of a clinic or a hospital. It’s about creating environments where people can move, connect, learn, and thrive together,” said Shelly Carlson, Moorhead Mayor.

The donation will go towards sponsoring the walking trail inside the Loop and will also sponsor a new river corridor trail, which will be named the Essentia Health River Walk.

The 48,000 square foot building known as “The Loop” will provide a space for people to check out books, be active, and be connected with others. The walking track will also be available for people to walk or run all year round.

“I know how important it is to be active. It’s important for our well-being, for our physical and emotional health. And this river walk and the indoor walking loop will help provide a space for residents in the city of Moorhead to get out and not only be active, but interact as families,” said Stefanie Gefroh, President of Essentia Health West Market.

As the building continues its construction, Carlson says she is excited to see this place filled with people.

“It’s going to be a place where people are going to come to. You can live, work, and play right here in our downtown. And just a few steps towards the west, you can go right to the river, and we’re going to have a beautiful river walk as well,” said Carlson.