Downtown Duluth’s “The Block” taking shape

Duluth’s downtown area, known as “The Block” and State Route 120 realignment projects are nearing completion. Courtesy City of Duluth

Duluth’s downtown area, known as “The Block” and State Route 120 realignment projects are nearing completion. Courtesy City of Duluth

Duluth city officials reported on downtown construction at a recent city council work session. The city is nearing the completion of three significant downtown capital projects.

The realignment of State Route 120 is 99 percent complete. The city has approximately $200,000 left with a few outstanding invoices for things like the parking signs at the middle school. The city will look at any need for additional lighting once “The Block” businesses have installed their outdoor lighting.

Main Street parking is finished, with an unused balance of $102,000. Trees and sod are under warranty in case the drought has caused any permanent damage.

“The Block,” Duluth’s new downtown retail construction, is nearing completion. The hardscape on the main site is installed. However, building 600 on the Town Green was delayed due to a sewer line issue and still needs approximately $215,000 for completion. The city will review a request to transfer funds from the S.R. 120 Realignment and Main Street Phase II Parking to The Block at the Dec.12 council meeting.