Planning & Development
About the Division
The Planning and Development Division supports positive growth in Duluth, from the visioning stages of long-range comprehensive planning to day-to-day zoning review. This Division is also responsible for implementing the City’s housing goals, developing businesses and the local economy, advancing infrastructure projects, protecting environmental quality, and fostering partnerships to improve access to community services.
Downtown Development Strategy
The Downtown Development Strategy was adopted by City Council on June 29, 2026.
Duluth’s downtown has astounding assets upon which to build. With land use historically constrained by the hill and waterfront, the built environment is compact, with an urban form and density that makes efficient use of infrastructure and offers opportunities only a population center can provide. The area can also support significant new housing and growth. The commercial historic district creates identity and a cultural sense of place. Access to the waterfront supports recreation, commerce, and events.
The Planning and Development Division has compiled goals and recommendations from various downtown plans into a 2- to 5-year action plan identifying ways the city can improve development downtown.