Duluth’s next wave of change includes a replacement interstate bridge, new housing, and the restoration of a historic landmark. Other projects are rebuilding commercial corridors or preparing waterfront land for redevelopment. This countdown ranks nine major projects underway or planned in Duluth by scale, lasting impact, and readiness. Status reflects information available in October 2026.
9. Chum Shelter Expansion
Address: 102 West Second Street, Duluth, MN
Chum is expanding its downtown facility through renovation and a two-story addition. Plans increase the building to approximately 23,780 square feet, with capacity for 168 beds. The project also provides improved accessibility and dedicated space for support services. Summer 2026 updates documented the new structure rising above ground. Chum’s evolving service model includes transitional and family shelter functions, connecting the expanded building with broader homelessness-response changes.
8. Brae View
Brae View would bring 72 affordable senior apartments and a ground-floor child care center to Duluth’s Central Hillside neighborhood. One Roof Community Housing is developing the project with partners including Essentia Health and the Duluth YMCA. The development has an approved agreement and state housing funding. Construction was anticipated to begin in 2026, but a confirmed start date and opening schedule remain unavailable.
7. London Road / Highway 61 Improvements
Along Duluth’s eastern shoreline corridor, MnDOT is improving London Road through a two-season construction project. Work includes roundabouts, resurfacing, drainage improvements, and intersection changes. Sidewalk replacements and enhanced pedestrian crossings are also part of the scope. Construction began in April 2026, with additional work scheduled for 2027. The improvements address travel conditions along an established corridor serving residential neighborhoods, schools, businesses, and visitors heading toward the North Shore.
6. The Legacy Apartments
A wooded site near Lake Superior College is becoming the location of The Legacy, a five-story apartment development. Titanium Partners and T2 are building 148 apartments, including 30 income-restricted units through a partnership with Duluth’s housing authority. Construction began in October 2026. The development includes underground and surface parking, with housing available to students and the general public. The developer anticipates approximately eighteen months of construction.
5. Historic Duluth Armory Restoration
The historic Duluth Armory is being restored as an arts, music, and community destination. The Armory Arts and Music Center is working with Sherman Associates on the redevelopment. Planned uses include performance and event spaces, artist studios, and food and marketplace offerings. Construction updates document roof rehabilitation, elevator installation work, and restoration of the drill hall. The organization targets a 2027 reopening, returning the landmark to a broader public role.
4. Lot D / The Wharf Redevelopment
Approximately 12 acres of former industrial waterfront could become a new mixed-use district near Bayfront Festival Park. Known as Lot D or The Wharf, the site lies between Pier B and Compass Minerals. Redevelopment concepts include housing, commercial activity, and public waterfront access. However, seawall repairs, contaminated-soil treatment, demolition, and utility improvements must support future construction. The site’s potential is substantial, but individual buildings and completion dates remain subject to further development decisions.
3. West Superior Street Reconstruction
Lincoln Park’s commercial corridor is undergoing a reconstruction that reaches well below the pavement. The city’s project covers approximately 1.65 miles of West Superior Street and replaces aging underground utilities. Work is divided into three construction seasons, beginning in 2026 and continuing through 2028. Beyond roadway renewal, the project aims to improve safety and connections along the corridor. Its reach makes it one of Duluth’s most consequential neighborhood infrastructure projects.
2. Duluth International Airport Control Tower
A new air traffic control tower is replacing one of the country’s oldest operating towers at Duluth International Airport. Construction began in May 2026, with completion expected in 2028. The project includes supporting facilities and associated site improvements. Controllers will continue using the existing tower during construction. The replacement supports an airport handling airline, military, manufacturing, and general aviation activity, giving the investment significance beyond passenger travel alone.
1. Blatnik Bridge Replacement
Replacing the Blatnik Bridge is the largest undertaking in this countdown, rebuilding a critical connection between Duluth and Superior. The project includes a new bridge, approach improvements, and a shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists. Construction entered its initial phase in 2026. Full bridge closure is planned for 2027, with traffic diverted across the Bong Bridge. Work is scheduled to continue through 2032, reshaping a major route for commuters and freight.
Last Updated on October 30, 2026 by F.E.M