Kozy Building Demolition Deal Seeks to Revive Area with Historic Look

DULUTH, Minn. – Years of lawsuits, multiple fires and several suggested solutions later, the former Kozy Bar and Apartments in Downtown Duluth is coming down.

The Pastoret Terrace, commonly known as the Kozy, has been the subject of legal battles for a decade and a half. The city of Duluth has wanted to clear the dilapidated complex that sits at the corner of North 2nd Ave East and East 1st Street, while former owner Dr. Eric Ringsred remained set on preserving the historical nature of the area. This settlement seeks to blend the interests of both parties.

The structure will be demolished, but according to the agreement, any new buildings will have to fit the historic “character” of the surrounding 1st Street. With a focus on redevelopment that reflects historical Duluth, there’s new hope for properties surrounding the Kozy, to get much-needed attention as well.

“This is a this is a win for the community, our downtown and really economic development in the region,” said Daniel Fanning, Vice President of Strategy & Policy for the Duluth Chamber of Commerce. Fanning said that area businesses are eager that having a deal and plan for demolition in place “brings it to the forefront and makes it more realistic.”

Duluth Councilman at Large Arik Forsman said the past 15 years of uncertainty have created an “overwhelming sentiment… from the public is that they want a conclusion to the saga.” Forsman said he hopes that the settlement provides a resolution that both sides can appreciate.

For more on the $2.13 million settlement agreement, click here.