Airpark Expands

A groundbreaking ceremony was held May 3 for Airpark Phase II, a 47-acre expansion project at the Authority-owned complex adjacent to the Duluth In-ternational Airport.

Ulland Brothers, Inc., of Carlton, Minn., was awarded a $1.9 million contract by the Authority in January to prepare the Phase II portion of the industrial park.

Congressman James L. Oberstar's support was instrumental in the issuance by the Economic Development Administration of a nearly $1.2 million grant in January to the Port Authority for development of Airpark Phase II street, utility and drainage systems The City of Duluth will invest $239,000 in water and sewer upgrades, with the Authority providing the remaining funds needed for the project.

The expansion will create 18 new lots ranging in size from 1.3 to
5.5 acres. The entire Phase II portion of Airpark is included in 140-acres of Port Authority-controlled properties designated in December 2003 as job opportunity building zone (JOBZ) sites.

Bill Kron, president, Duluth Seaway Port Authority board of commissioners (left), and Congressman James L. Oberstar broke ground in May for the Airpark Phase II industrial complex.

JOBZ locations offer exemptions from property, sales and certain other state taxes as incentives to encourage business growth in greater Minnesota.

"The number of companies operating in the existing Airpark complex totals 36 with about 610 employees," said Andy McDonough Port Authority business development director.

"The addition of these lots combined with the JOBZ designation has granted significant interest and will certainly be an exciting new economic development tool to help us attract business to the region," he said.

Lots will be available for construction in October.