The Plains

The Plains is managed by Collective Management, based in Fargo, ND.

The Plains: From Vision to Reality Guided by Jesse Craig

When The Plains Apartments broke ground in Watertown, SD, it marked more than just the arrival of a 216-unit modern housing complex, it was the realization of a vision first introduced by Jesse Craig, developer and founder of Craig Development, LLC near the end of 2020.

In early 2021, discussions with local leaders, Craig recognized a growing gap in Watertown’s housing market—particularly for quality, workforce-friendly apartments that could attract and retain residents. He brought forward the concept for a large-scale, multi-building apartment community and positioned it as a vital piece of the city’s growth strategy.

Craig’s connections and development expertise helped spark collaboration between the Berg Group, a North Dakota–based developer, and the Watertown Development Company (WDC). Through this partnership, and with the City’s support via a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district, the project moved from concept to construction.

The result is The Plains—three residential buildings offering workforce housing.

While Craig ultimately stepped back from the project’s direct execution, his role as originator and catalyst was instrumental. Without his early insight into Watertown’s housing needs and his ability to connect the right partners, The Plains might never have left the drawing board. The Plains is currently managed by Collective Management, based in Fargo, ND.