After a long, tedious four-year-long wait, Superior Street is officially re-opened.

Duluth Mayor Emily Larson announced its reopening Friday morning, and signs blocking 3rd and 4th Ave E were taken down around 6 p.m.

"This is really a project we are reset and we are ready this is truly a once in a generation project, it been a tremendous lift for so many people but most importantly it's open and it's ready," Larson said.

The 31.5 million dollar project began in 2018, with more than 130,000 hours put into it by crews.

Sidewalks and roads were redone along with some beautification efforts such as new flower planters.

Local businesses like Hucklebeary faced many obstacles during construction, as closed roads caused problems.

"Without having people drive down Superior Street, I mean our sidewalks even got replaced as well so having people walk into your business its been challenging. And then throw a pandemic on top of that it's been kind of a wild ride the past 4 years," said owner, Emily Ekstrom.

After four years, many business obstacles are now solved, which is why Duluth’s Greater Downtown Council is celebrating.

"There's been a lot of challenges for our businesses, but they are resilient, and our downtown is resilient and we are so excited to have this street opening later on today," said GDC President Kristi Stokes.

Meanwhile, Superior Street businesses couldn’t be happier.

"We are thrilled, like thrilled to have the street back open," Ekstrom said.

Construction crews are going to be doing some finishing touches, but they said it won't affect the flow of traffic.

For more information visit: https://kbjr6.com/2021/09/03/we-are-thrilled-businesses-rejoice-as-superior-street-reopens-to-traffic/