City Launches Public Input Process for Lester Park Site's Future

Duluth seeks community feedback on redevelopment plans for former 270-acre golf course

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The City of Duluth has kicked off a comprehensive land-use study to determine the future of the 270-acre former Lester Park Golf Course site, beginning a months-long planning process that includes public input, stakeholder guidance, and an analysis of the site's environmental and development potential.

Why it matters

The future of the Lester Park site is a significant issue for the Duluth community, as it represents one of the city's largest public land parcels. The planning process aims to balance natural resource preservation with new recreation opportunities and housing development, reflecting the diverse needs and interests of local residents.

The details

The study is being led by consultant Bolton and Menk, with input from a cross-departmental project team and a stakeholder committee representing various city commissions, organizations, and community groups. The first public open house allowed residents to provide feedback on current site conditions and share their preferred ideas for future recreation and housing uses.

  • The City Council requested the land-use study in an October 2025 resolution.
  • The first public open house was held on Monday, March 3, 2026.
  • Draft development and recreation scenarios are expected to be presented in April or May 2026, followed by another public meeting in early May.

The players

Jenn Moses

The City of Duluth's planning manager, overseeing the land-use study.

Bolton and Menk

The consultant leading the comprehensive land-use study for the former Lester Park Golf Course site.

Lester Park Golf Course

The 270-acre former golf course that closed in 2020 and is now the subject of the city's land-use study.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're at the beginning of a land‑use study, and we want to make sure we balance natural‑resource preservation with recreation opportunities and housing.”

— Jenn Moses, Planning Manager, City of Duluth (wdio.com)

“A lot of people are talking about the concept of missing‑middle housing and housing where somebody could age in place. I've talked to a couple people who said, 'If you provided one‑level living, I would love to move here.'”

— Jenn Moses, Planning Manager, City of Duluth (wdio.com)

What’s next

Draft development and recreation scenarios for the Lester Park site are expected to be presented in April or May 2026, followed by another public meeting in early May.

The takeaway

The City of Duluth's comprehensive land-use study for the former Lester Park Golf Course site represents a significant community planning effort, as the city seeks to balance preservation, recreation, and housing needs on one of its largest public land parcels. The inclusive public engagement process aims to ensure the final plan reflects the diverse priorities of local residents.