Preserving the past, empowering the future.
Rehabilitation in the beautiful 4th floor event space.
Showcasing the original ceiling in the historic Drill Hall.
Construction Updates
THE ELEVATOR PIT
As we work to make the Armory an accessible space for all members of our community, one important step is the installation of an elevator. The Armory has never had one before, and creating space for it was no small task. Because space inside the building is so limited, the construction team had to dig the elevator pit entirely by hand. Dirt was shoveled onto a conveyor belt, carried to the next level, and then hauled outside the building. This incredible and challenging work was completed by Red Cedar Steel and KTM Paving, Inc., and it marks another important step toward making the historic Armory accessible to everyone.
THE ROOF
If you have driven by the Armory recently, you may have noticed construction crews hard at work on the roof. We are excited to say that the roof has been completed! The Kraus Anderson and The Jamar Company's teams were hard at work this spring and summer bringing the roof up to today's energy code standards, repairing leaks, tuckpointing and fixing brick facade, making the armory more energy efficient.
THE STAGE
The construction crew carefully preserved the original hardwood from the historic main stage as the flooring was removed. As restoration begins, the salvaged wood will be incorporated alongside new flooring, helping preserve a piece of the stage’s history for generations to come.
A limited number of pieces of the original main stage flooring that could not be incorporated into the restoration are now available to the public. Reserve your own piece of Duluth Armory history today.
DRILL HALL
Construction crews removed the drop ceiling to expose the Armory’s original wood trusses and open up the space. The wood paneling above was also replaced, restoring the ceiling structure and bringing the building one step closer to its next chapter.
Economic Benefits
Expanded local business ownership and partnership opportunities.
New job creation in food service, arts, culture, and non profit sectors.
Strengthened city tax base through sustainable revenue generating operations.
A year round cultural destination drawing residents and visitors alike.
"This project is not just about brick and mortar, it's about the life that goes on after it's finished, the community impact and energy it will bring for years to come."
George Sherman, CEO of Sherman Associates, Inc.
and Project Developer
Experienced Partners
Our development, design, and construction partners bring deep expertise in historic rehabilitation, complex financing and long horizon property management.
Sherman Associates, known for the restoration of Duluth's NorShor Theatre and other nationally recognized historic projects, brings that same level of rigor and long term commitment to the Armory.
Lead designers LHB and general contractors Kraus Anderson round out the dynamic team guiding this landmark to completion.
