Council OKs resolution to evaluate long-term future of downtown skywalk system; working group to report within six months

The council considered Resolution 132, which requests an evaluation of the long-term future of the downtown skywalk system.

Councilor Randorf described the measure as a call for a broad assessment of the skywalk system’s condition, impacts of potential changes, and stakeholder involvement. He said stakeholders should include business owners, property owners and community groups such as We Walk Duluth and Vibrant Streets Duluth.

Council members emphasized the study should be open-ended and avoid prescriptive outcomes. Councilor Mayo said the evaluation could include non‑structural improvements such as better lighting, public art, or other investments to improve safety and vitality.

City staff and the city attorney clarified the initiative is intended as a working group of staff, select councilors and stakeholders rather than a formal task force, and there is no associated dollar amount in the resolution. The city attorney stated that meetings regarding the matter would be open to the public under Minnesota open-meetings requirements.

Councilors asked staff to clarify whether the working group’s structure would be posted publicly and whether it would follow the same procedures as past task forces; staff agreed to report back. The resolution sets a six‑month timeline for recommendations following the effective date of passage; participants said the item will be pulled from consent for additional council conversation and wider participation.