Final Progress Advisory Panel Report - Knight Program in ...

Higher Education Small Area Plan examined a broader geography.
It concluded that although student housing demand is already
being met, there may be an “interest pool” for a different kind of
housing product, such as urban mixed-use housing, that is easily
accessible to campuses. Given strong national trends of students
moving into mixed-use urban housing projects and the stated goals
of attracting more students and artists to live in the Creative Corridor,
the next projects supported by demand are likely to be located
in the Duluth Creative Corridor.
Other housing observations:
At the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, students
and faculty have 24/7 access to Zipcars parked right on
campus. The cars can be reserved on-line and used for one- or
two-hour trips or all day outings. In addition to convenience,
benefits include the need for less parking and reduced traffic
congestion.
• New housing projects with a good mix of market-rate and affordable
units are planned.
• There are indications of an emerging market for lower maintenance,
high amenity, downtown urban living as a primary and
secondary housing alternative.
• Of the multiple projects completed in the study area, only two,
which were both condominium developments, failed to sell or
lease-up on schedule during a very difficult economic period.
• Gentrification has been minimal and housing for seniors, low
income, and working families continues to be part of the mix.
• Emerging arts and entertainment nodes are a key amenity for
Duluth Creative Corridor residents.
• There is a strong demand from young singles and couples for
downtown and near-downtown housing. Anecdotal reports
indicate that there is an organic trend of small residential rehabilitation
projects.
Growing partnerships with medical, educational, and arts
institutions is a critical component of making the Duluth
Creative Corridor a reality.
Institutional Partnerships
The evidence supports the progress in the area of institutional partnerships.
• Anchor institutions in Duluth are generally healthy and prepared to lead growth.
• Institutional relationships with city government continue to improve and grow, and non-profit housing and
arts groups are making real progress.
• New advocacy groups have been established, and new community partnerships with institutions are beginning
to emerge.
• UMD executives (both academic and administrative) are ready to be a strong partner. Their enthusiastic
interest in creating partnerships in the corridor, including nearby neighborhoods, the downtown, and Hill-
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