Transforming Duluth’s Waterfront: A Big Step Towards a Safer, More Inviting Future

At The Hose Company, we take immense pride in being a part of projects that not only strengthen infrastructure but also enhance communities. One such project that we’re excited to highlight is the ongoing waterfront redevelopment in Duluth, Minnesota. This project is set to make a significant impact on both the local economy and the safety of the area, all while rejuvenating one of Duluth’s most popular tourist destinations.

The Challenge: Sinkholes and Erosion

Seawalls are often exposed to the forces of nature, including tides, waves, and the movements of boat and ship traffic. Over time, these forces can cause erosion and even sinkholes, also known as earth subsidences, which pose serious safety risks. In Duluth, this problem has become particularly noticeable along the waterfront near the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC). Aging seawalls, which have been in place for decades, have allowed water to seep behind them, eroding the soil that holds the structures in place. This creates dangerous conditions for pedestrians and cyclists, especially in high-traffic areas.

The Solution: A Revitalized Waterfront

After years of planning, the City of Duluth is now entering the final phase of its waterfront redevelopment project. The goal? To replace nearly 1,000 feet of eroded seawall and create a modern, safer, and more inviting public space. This transformation will connect Canal Park to the Bayfront and Harbor Plaza areas, making it easier for residents and tourists alike to explore the waterfront and enjoy the many attractions Duluth has to offer.

In addition to replacing the seawalls, the new infrastructure will include pedestrian and bike paths, green spaces, new lighting, and gathering areas. By mid 2025, the city expects to have created a more walkable, bike-friendly environment that links key destinations, such as the Great Lakes Aquarium and Bayfront Festival Park. Another exciting development is the ability for cruise ships to dock directly at the newly constructed seawall, eliminating the need for shuttle boats and making the harbor even more accessible to visitors.

The Role of Wren Works, LLC

Leading the construction of this massive project is Wren Works, LLC, a highway heavy and marine construction company based in Poplar, WI. Specializing in sheet pile and dock wall construction, Wren Works has been working through the winter months to build a seawall that is both weather-resistant and structurally sound. The team at Wren Works has been using cutting-edge equipment to ensure the job is done right, including the ICE® 50B Vibratory Driver/Extractor and the ICE® IP-3 Hydraulic Impact Hammer.

These pieces of equipment, powered by Hydrauli-Flex hoses, have been essential in driving steel sheets and piles deep into the ground, ensuring that the new seawall is secure and stable. In particular, the ICE® equipment has been able to tackle the challenges posed by the difficult soil conditions in the area — once a shipping terminal and scrap yard — allowing the team to drive steel sheets up to 50 feet in length and install piles to depths of up to 50 feet.

Wren Works’ Project Manager, Jake Magdzas, has praised the equipment for providing both time and cost savings. As he put it, "At the end of the day, time is money," and having the right equipment in place makes all the difference.

Why It Matters

This $18 million project is more than just a construction project — it’s a step toward ensuring the safety of the public, boosting local tourism, and revitalizing the area. The new seawalls will protect Duluth’s waterfront from extreme weather and rising water levels while providing an accessible and enjoyable space for residents and visitors. This development will undoubtedly enhance the city’s economy by attracting more tourists and improving the area’s overall appeal.

Hydraulic Hoses: The Unsung Heroes of Construction

Hydraulic hoses play a critical role in powering the machinery used in large-scale projects like this one. These hoses are responsible for efficiently transferring pressurized fluids to various pieces of construction equipment. Their flexibility and durability make them ideal for handling the constant movement and vibration often seen in industrial and construction settings.

At The Hose Company, we specialize in providing high-quality hydraulic and industrial hoses, fittings, and custom assemblies that are built to handle high pressures and tough environments. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, we pride ourselves on offering products that are reliable, durable, and designed to last.

Whether you’re working on a major infrastructure project like the Duluth seawall redevelopment or any other high-demand application, our hoses are built to meet the toughest standards, ensuring your equipment performs optimally throughout the job.

Contact Us

If you’re interested in learning more about our hydraulic hose solutions or how we can support your next project, feel free to contact us. Our team is ready to help you find the right products for your needs.

Let’s continue building a safer, stronger future — one project at a time.