GND Development Alliance

The Gary-New Duluth Recreation area was shutdown by the City in 2009 due to budget shortfalls. The GND Development Alliance was created in 2013 to revitalize and transform the city into a true community center and recreation area. The initial vision and much more has been accomplished. The GND REC is a true, regional destination.

Mark Boben grew up in the far west community of Gary-New Duluth. Upon graduating from college, Mark went to work for Phillips Petroleum Company. He worked around the world including 15 years in Norway and China. His career focused on major capital projects, government relations, Health, Safety & Environment, training and QAQC. Mark and his wife, Linda, moved back to Duluth in 2009 after taking early retirement. Mark wanted to give back to his community and began with enhancing the GND Veterans Memorial and reinstituting Memorial Day ceremonies before establishing an all-volunteer non-profit organization, to revitalize and transform the GND REC.