Post 2016 Downtown Fire, Hibbing Secures Block-Long Redevelopment Project

DULUTH, Minn. — In 2016, fire destroyed a popular sports bar and grill in downtown Hibbing, creating an economic eyesore for years to come.  But now, a revitalization is on the way for the 400 block of Howard Street.

Hibbing Mayor Peter Hyduke said the three buildings on one side of the block will be demolished later this year after the city purchased the properties.

Redevelopment will begin in the spring of 2026 in the form of workforce housing, and new retail and commercial space.

The three dilapidated buildings currently standing will turn into one four-story development called The Iron Exchange at 400.

The project will include 56 market-rate housing units, 17,000-square-feet of street-level retail space, a fitness center, community room, and patio for tenants.

“About nine years ago, we had a major fire on this block, and we were looking for ways to revitalize it being a main block within our downtown Howard Street. So we basically taking our comprehensive and strategic plans for the city, we were looking for a redevelopment of this block,” Mayor Hyduke explained. “For smaller communities, this is really going to be unique to have a project of this size that can help revitalize our downtown.”

The development is set to open in the fall of 2027.

Parking will include 70 underground spots and 40 surface spots.

Hyduke said the project’s price tag will be between $20 and $25 million.