The city of Duluth is accepting public comments until July 13 on an environmental assessment worksheet that was prepared for proposed projects at Spirit Mountain Recreation Area in 2016-2017. The plans include Nordic cross-country ski trails, mountain bike trails, Superior Hiking Trail extensions, rail-to-trail conversion, and an 18-hole disc golf course.

The proposed projects would initiate when all permits and approvals are received. They are part of the St. Louis River Corridor Initiative aimed at revitalizing and enhancing recreational opportunities and appropriate development in the western corridor of Duluth.

The EAW will provide information on the environmental effects of this project. A copy of the EAW is available online at duluthmn.gov. (If you load the PDF and see nothing but grey space, scroll to the right a bit to find the doc.) Additional hard copies of the EAW are available for public review at the Duluth Public Library reference department and the Duluth Community Planning Office in room 208 of Duluth City Hall.

Notice of the EAW will be published in the June 13 EQB Monitor, the weekly publication of the Minnesota Environment Quality Board. Written comments must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m. on July 13 to the attention of Keith Hamre, director of planning and construction services, 411 W. First St., Room 208, Duluth MN 55802.

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to receive comments on the EAW on Tuesday, July 12, 5 p.m., in the third floor Council Chambers of Duluth City Hall.

The Planning Commission will review the written comments and make a determination on the EAW at its regular meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 9, 5 p.m., also in the council chambers.

Electronic comments may be sent to khamre @ duluthmn.gov with “Spirit Mountain EAW comments” in the subject line. If submitting comments electronically, include your full name and postal mailing address.