Portion of Skyline Parkway closed temporarily to allow for one-way traffic conversion work
Contractors performing the conversion of Skyline Parkway at the Enger Park Loop to one-way traffic begin work today. This section of Skyline Parkway will be closed temporarily to allow the contractor to complete the work quickly and safely. During the closure, Hank Jensen Drive will remain fully open to traffic and can be used as a detour. The closure is anticipated to last about a week, though the timeframe may need to be extended slightly.
This project will be the next step in the City of Duluth’s response to two fatal crashes in February 2024. This project will change this section of Skyline Parkway to a one-way section, with a delineated pedestrian area for use by pedestrians and bicyclists. Two marked pedestrian crosswalks will also be provided at trail crossings along the section. Among the most common concerns heard in the aftermath of those incidents was a concern regarding pedestrian safety along this specific stretch of road, vehicle speeds around a sharp curve near Twin Ponds, and cut-through traffic at a challenging intersection with 5th Street. In late 2024, the city closed the accesses to Fifth Street and Sixth Street due to the challenging intersection geometry, but was forced to delay implementation of the traffic flow conversion until this spring.
This specific work is described as a demonstration project, meant to be installed faster than a typical street project and at a lower initial cost. Demonstration projects like this are meant to help prove a concept; in this case, improving the safety for both motorized and non-motorized road users along a challenging corridor. At the same time, the demonstration project also gives the city flexibility to reverse course without significant expense if the anticipated safety and comfort benefits are not seen. Opportunities to provide feedback from road users of all types will be available shortly after the construction is complete; the city looks forward to feedback from all regarding this project.
Eklund Avenue reconstruction, Junction Avenue/Saint Marie Street rehabilitation project underway
Two significant road construction projects are set to begin today.
The Eklund Avenue reconstruction project includes full-depth reconstruction of Eklund Avenue, including bituminous pavement, concrete sidewalks, curb and gutter, driveway improvements, and utility work consisting of new water main and improved storm drainage system between Maple Grove Road and Swan Lake Road. The project is scheduled to be completed in late October. The affected section of the road will be closed to traffic during the work.
Also underway is the Junction Avenue/Saint Marie Street rehabilitation project. The project consists of a combination of street reconstruction and pavement rehabilitation along Junction Avenue and Saint Marie Street near the University of Minnesota Duluth campus between College Street and Carver Avenue. Project work includes full-depth pavement reconstruction, mill and overlay, concrete walks and driveways, concrete curb and gutter, and concrete ADA pedestrian ramps. Project utility work includes storm sewer replacement and rehabilitation, gate valve adjustments, manhole adjustments, and electrical duct bank installation.
The Junction Avenue/Saint Marie Street rehabilitation project is scheduled to be substantially complete by mid-August of 2025. Major work will be suspended from August 18, 2025, to September 8, 2025. Project completion is expected by late October 2025. Detours will be posted in the area.
Portion of N. Lake Avenue closed temporarily
Contractors working on the citywide lead water service replacement project closed the 600 block of North Lake today. This work is expected to take a week, with the road reopening to traffic on Friday, May 16. A signed detour will be posted redirecting traffic to First Avenue E. during the work.
While a signed detour will be in place, drivers and commuters are encouraged to consider alternative routes to get to their destinations. Traffic delays should be anticipated.
-- City of Duluth press releases
