DEDA uses TIFs to redevelop neighborhoods

By Zachery Hammer

DEDA and housing

DEDA has also used Tax Increment Financing to assist with low-income housing needs in three different areas around Duluth. The first to be certified, in 1989, was a project called “Scattered Site Redevelopment District,” or District 7. Hanson said this district is “virtually impossible to describe” with a number of different pockets throughout the city, including Spirit Bay, West Duluth, Fremont Point, Ramsey, Irving, and Nicolet St. neighborhoods. This project is set to expire in 2015.

Another TIF housing district, Jefferson Square, was certified in 1990 and included a one-block area bordered by 9th and 10th Avenues East and East Second and East Third Streets. This district was decertified last year.

A third TIF area was created in July 1994 and will expire in June 2021. The Washington Center District is located between Lake Avenue and First Avenue West and between East Third and Fourth streets.

These districts were put in place to redevelop aging buildings and infrastructure, as well as to create more housing opportunities for those who may not be able to afford it otherwise.