FARGO, N.D. (AP) - North Dakota's incoming governor is setting his sights on revitalizing the downtown areas of communities around the state.
Republican Doug Burgum is set to take office Thursday. The one-time computer software executive turned philanthropist has already unveiled a plan to turn downtowns into vibrant social and economic hubs that make people want to live there.
Burgum, who hasn't held office before, says his Main Street Initiative can attract people for tech jobs and complement a state economy largely dependent on oil and agriculture.
While both Democrats and Republicans say the idea has merit, some are skeptical about whether it could help the smaller communities.