Construction Updates

August is nearly over, unbelievably. Our HVAC and remodeling project is moving at a steady clip, too. Here are some high level updates.

Our first Dedicated Outdoor Air System was installed in late August. This is a milestone for the project, as this is a central component in our new system. It required additional engineering and brute strength, but the team managed to hoist several sections, some weighing upwards of 2,500 pounds, into their final platform below our theatre.

The Depot Theatre is officially closed until next winter, when a few limited engagements are booked. We plan to open our books for events again in May 2027. The theatre’s new lighting support system has been welded above the proscenium, and new dimmable house lights have been installed, welcoming us to the 21st century! MN Power will be installing a new transformer soon, which is a crucial step in completing our electrical work.

The main floor’s New Ojibwe Gallery has a new insulated shaft installed, including an opening cut through the ceiling — another major step in the process. Soon we’ll be rejuvenating and polishing the original terracotta floors! Scaffolding for the ceiling and lighting work will go up in The Great Hall at the end of December 2026 and is scheduled to be removed by March 2027. We are working on a wayfinding plan for this period, stay tuned.

The Lake Superior Railroad Museum offices and archives have fresh cabinetry installed, and it’s gorgeous! The archive  will provide a productive, purpose-built area for Corrie and the LSRM curatorial team to collect and care for precious items.

The fourth floor’s massive remodel is making good progress but remains closed to visitors. The Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra’s new offices are framed in! Ductwork is in progress and soon a new fire suppression system will be installed in the attic above the fourth floor.

During a routine walk-through, Katie discovered a tube of shaving cream, circa 1965, inside one of the masonry blocks on the fourth floor. Why would one shave in the attic? That’s still a mystery …