News Summary
Grand Rapids is set for significant changes with the planned demolition of the Big Boy restaurant on Pearl Street NW to make way for the new Amway Stadium. This new venue, which will accommodate up to 8,500 spectators, is anticipated to begin construction in mid-April 2025 and is part of a broader initiative aimed at community revitalization. The project follows the recent closure of the Big Boy, with plans for future community benefits and ongoing local engagement.
Grand Rapids Gears Up for Major Changes with the Demolition of Big Boy Restaurant
Exciting times are on the horizon for Grand Rapids, as the city prepares for the demolition of the old Big Boy restaurant located on Pearl Street NW. This isn’t just a regular tear-down; it’s paving the way for a brand-new venture—the construction of the Amway Stadium. Scheduled to kick off in mid-April 2025, demolition of the Big Boy will make room for a stunning new venue that can accommodate up to 8,500 spectators. Talk about a thrilling transformation!
Big Boy Closes Its Doors
The big news started when that beloved Big Boy restaurant abruptly closed its doors on a Monday, leaving many locals surprised. A notice was posted, directing loyal customers to head over to a location in Wyoming. This particular spot has been a staple in the community, but as the lease came to an end, it was time for a change. Big Boy’s Vice President of Operations indicated plans are in the works to reopen in Grand Rapids, though specific locations are yet to be determined. For now, employees from the Pearl Street location have been offered positions at other nearby Big Boy franchises, ensuring their transition is as smooth as possible.
The Future of Community Development
The prime property at 407 Pearl St. NW belongs to DP Fox Ventures, LLC, associated with the DeVos family, who are enthusiastic about fostering community development in the area. The upcoming demolition comes on the heels of another closure—the announcement that Charley’s Crab will also be razed, continuing the DeVos family’s ambitious vision for revitalization through development plans.
Stadium Plans Unveiled
The proposed Amway Stadium is part of a larger initiative called Grand Action 2.0. This initiative aims to enhance downtown development and explores potential mixed-use properties to bring even more life into the community. Though the schedule for demolition is set, it’s important to note that the site must undergo due diligence and involve community engagement before the final plans are confirmed. An exciting construction kickoff is anticipated in spring 2025, with hopes that the stadium will open by spring 2027.
A New Hub for Community Events
Once completed, the stadium will not only serve as a venue for soccer matches but will also accommodate a variety of community events, drawing a significant number of visitors annually. With a whopping $175 million investment in the project, it’s primarily funded through a delightful mix of private donations and public funding, including tax dollars raised by a hotel tax increase approved by the local community.
Amway’s Commitment
Amway has dedicated $33 million for naming rights, signaling a strong commitment to invest in the Grand Rapids community. Although a specific sports team has yet to be announced for the stadium, connections to local sports entities are highly anticipated. The DeVos family’s involvement through DP Fox Ventures is set to prioritize community benefits and stakeholder input throughout the entire process.
A Bright Future Ahead
As local leaders look forward, there’s a sense of optimism that the Amway Stadium will not only enhance local economic growth—creating jobs and attracting visitors—but also foster unity among the diverse local populations through sporting events and community activities. This renovation is shaping up to be a major game-changer for Grand Rapids, breathing new life into the area and providing a vibrant hub for all. Keep your eyes peeled for the progress ahead and get ready to cheer on your community as it embarks on this exciting new chapter!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- MLive: Big Boy Targeted for Demolition
- Fox17: Big Boy’s Abrupt Closure
- WZZM13: Kum & Go Convenience Store Proposed
- Google Search: Grand Rapids Big Boy Stadium Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Development in Grand Rapids
