Finding affordable housing in Duluth can be a challenging problem. Although a new housing proposal at the site where Duluth Central High school once stood could potentially be the solution.

Jeff Schiltz one of the principals representing ICS says plans are to create one of the biggest housing developments in Duluth.

“The Incline Village will literally be a new neighborhood in Duluth. Right here on top of the hill and have its own retail and own amenities,” Schiltz said. “The developer already has us in design of the first building. It will be a condominium building, which would be sitting right over my shoulder.”

The new housing proposal in the works would also bring 1,300 housing units overlooking the city of Duluth.

“That building would begin construction here this summer,” Schiltz said. “We expect families moving into that building starting in the summer or fall of 2025”.

Schiltz said the Incline Village project has three distinct phases. The first phase would tackle housing. The second phase would feature over 30,000 feet of retail space, but will also include public amenities like a plaza.

“The third phase would be another 220 apartment complex or a senior housing building, which would be replacing the old building on the property.”

The Duluth Economic Development Authority has already signed off on the proposal for building 1,300 housing units. However, Arik Forsman says it still has to get through City Council for approval.

“Developing a site of this size is a very complicated endeavor,” Forsman said. “I know that it’s taken a long time to get to this point. I just have to give so much credit to our city staff. Putting us in a position to take what is currently a large vacant space and potentially turn it into one of our gems in the city.”

Forsman said the Incline Village housing project proposal will be a costly project. DEDA approved Tax Increment Financing subsidy for the plan.

“You’re looking at upwards of a $500 million investment in Duluth with over 1,300 units of housing, as well as some retail on this site. So certainly big news with the city and I think a pretty exciting opportunity,” Forsman said. “The city is using property tax values that will increase right here at this development to help fund some of the public infrastructure, roads, utilities, etc., so we can enable this very difficult site to develop, to move forward.”

The next city council meeting is on Monday February 12th, council members will hear the project proposal and determine whether or not the Incline Village project will move forward.

For more information about ICS you can read more here. Also for other stories with housing you can read more here.