Duluth Matters Volunteers Install Planters in Parsons Alley

Duluth Matters volunteers led by Councilman Billy Jones installed and filled seven attractive wooden planters for the alley that runs between West Lawrenceville Street and the parking lot on Abbott's Bridge Road Saturday, July 13.

Jones built the planters.

The improved alley is going to be called Parsons Alley, according to Mayor Nancy Harris.

Volunteers have been painting the buildings along the alley, which runs behind Main Street shops downtown. Rains the day before prevented volunteers from painting Saturday because the buildings were damp.

The alley was recently paved to make it more passable for residents, visitors and shoppers, especially during the Duluth Fall Festival.

It will also serve as a casual community gathering spot.

The Parsons family operated several businesses downtown and used the once covered alleyway. The city demolished the covered structure and opened up the alley as part of its revitalization efforts.

Duluth Matters held two workdays on the alley. The first workday was May 18.