Incline Village

Incline Village, an impressive development project in Duluth, Minnesota, is managed by Incline Plaza Development LLC, the same group behind notable projects like the Endi Apartments, the Lighthouse for the Blind, and Kenwood Village Apartments. Located on the former Duluth Central High School site, which was acquired and demolished in 2022, the project is set to be transformed into a mixed-use area encompassing housing, retail, and office spaces. This initiative is designed to revitalize the area and improve the community's economic, entertainment, and recreational aspects by meeting the growing demand for housing.

Echoing the successes of other projects, such as the Endi Building, Incline Village is a key part of the strategy to combat Duluth's housing shortage. The development includes significant infrastructural enhancements, including new roads and expanded utilities. It is on a hillside and offers stunning views of Lake Superior and downtown Duluth. The area will have a public pavilion, diverse retail and entertainment options, co-working spaces, and connections to local hiking, walking, and biking trails, making it a compelling choice for residents and visitors alike.

Incline Village By-the-Numbers

• This initiative involves a $500 million investment planned over three phases to establish a new community.
• It will include 1,180 market-rate housing units distributed across several buildings.
• The development is also expected to feature 70–120 condominiums with prime city views.
• Spanning 7 to 10 years, the project will integrate housing, retail spaces, and public green areas.
• Additionally, it will offer 80,000 square feet of retail space.

A Modern Community by Design

The groundbreaking ceremony in December 2024 marked a pivotal moment for Incline Village, attended by key figures such as Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert, City Councilor Roz Randorf, and Senator Grant Hauschild. Recognized as the second-largest private development in Duluth’s history, this project represents years of planning and partnership. Spearheaded by Development Team Leader Jeff Schiltz and a coalition of building trade partners, the initiative signifies a monumental commitment to community and economic enhancement.

The development is designed to accommodate various housing needs, offering multiple types, sizes, and price points. It focuses mainly on multifamily and multi-income units, which are crucial for supporting Duluth’s economy and attracting a diverse population, including young professionals, families, and retirees.

Situated in the Central Hillside neighborhood, the area has long faced challenges due to aging infrastructure and a shortage of affordable and premium housing options. Incline Village aims to alleviate these issues by offering modern, appealing living spaces.

A Vision for Economic Revitalization

The establishment of Incline Village is not just about building a new neighborhood; it's also a catalyst for economic revitalization. The construction of market-rate apartments and condominiums on this premier lakeside site is expected to meet the varied housing needs of the community, including affordable, luxury, and senior living options. The project will generate numerous jobs during construction and continue offering employment opportunities thereafter, stimulating local businesses, enhancing property values, and increasing consumer traffic.

Developers have ensured that Incline Village caters to a broad range of income levels, featuring a mix of residential and commercial units expected to stabilize income streams and property values. The 80,000 square feet of dedicated retail space is set to create new business opportunities and jobs, thereby expanding the city’s tax base and supporting municipal services and infrastructure.

Retail, Entertainment, and Recreation District

Incline Village is envisioned as a vibrant community hub, integrating shopping, dining, entertainment, and recreation into a lively district. This plan reduces reliance on vehicles, promoting a community-oriented lifestyle rich in social interaction and convenience.

Developed with a focus on high-quality living and commercial spaces, the project emphasizes sustainability and wellness. It features accessible green spaces and is designed to enhance wellness through recreational and wellness areas, ensuring a well-rounded lifestyle for residents.

Sustainable construction practices are key to the development, focusing on water conservation and eco-friendly waste management. The residential buildings, including modern apartments and condominiums, are designed for energy efficiency and equipped with Energy-Star appliances, advanced insulation, low-E windows, and environmentally friendly HVAC systems.

Incline Village is designed to be more than just a place to live; it is a destination that adapts to the evolving urban needs of Duluth. It promises to provide a transformative experience for residents and visitors, making it a cornerstone of growth and development for the greater Duluth community.