Commuters in Duluth, take note of the imminent detour that will affect your route starting tomorrow. The City of Duluth has confirmed that the 400 block of East Third Street will be temporarily closed as contractors begin the demolition process of the former St. Mary’s Hospital. For locals, it's another pulse in the steady rhythm of city reconstruction—a necessary inconvenience that signals progress. The closure is scheduled to start today, September 24, according to a City of Duluth news release.
Vehicles accustomed to traversing this block will need to reroute. Detours will guide traffic primarily to Fourth Street via Fifth Avenue West and Fourth Avenue West, bypassing the construction area. Those seeking to visit the Third Street Clinic during operating hours can still find their way, guided by signs posted at Fifth Avenue E and Third Street, as outlined in the release. However, accessibility comes to a halt during off-hours; the road will be completely closed to the public while work continues overhead on the skywalk.
Adjustments don't end there. The City's announcement elaborates that additional work on Third Street, at the intersection with Sixth Avenue East, extends this traffic disruption into the following week, necessitating the closure of Sixth Avenue East between Fourth and Third Streets. Motorists are advised to consider alternative routes where feasible, to alleviate the anticipated build-up of traffic and delay.
The City of Duluth has provided a detour map for reference to aid in planning your altered course through the city's beating heart of construction.
