Duluthians offer ideas on Spirit Valley renewal

Planning is still underway for Duluth’s Spirit Valley Core Investment Area project.

The initiative calls for public and private investment in the neighborhood, with a focus on the “core” a triangular area comprising North Central Avenue and Grand Avenue – running from where they meet to Interstate 35.

“West Duluth is one of those neighborhoods that has great bones. It is a traditional strong neighborhood. It has strong organization with a business club that’s active,” Explained Kyle Deming, a Senior Planner with the city, “It has a citizenry that’s been involved for many years on trying to see the neighborhood improve”

During the initial study for the plan, the city has been asking for feedback. During the summer, they began this process with a booth at Spirit Valley Days, then in October, hosted two “Spirit Valley Strolls”; walking tours of the area.

On December 3, Planners from the city held their first sit-down meeting from the public. During this session, residents got a chance to fill out surveys on the project, offer feedback, and speak in small groups to share ideas.

Jennifer Webb, a long-time resident of West Duluth, was excited about the initiative bringing the area back to its former glory.

“I have always loved this neighborhood. We moved here from Philadelphia, so we didn’t know anything about Duluth. The community is fantastic, lots of wonderful neighbors. We have really great small businesses. I think that’s just the beginning of the potential to bring Spirit Valley to the way it was.” Said Webb.

Public comment is still on-going for the project, and planners will host a second meeting in the spring. Surveys for the project can be found online.