Grand Rapids Unveils New Community Developments

News Summary

Grand Rapids is set for major enhancements with the announcement of a new multi-use park and a three-story mixed-use development. The park will serve all ages and highlight sustainable landscaping, while the development will provide affordable housing options and retail spaces. Aiming to revitalize the community, these projects promise to improve walkability and connectivity in the area.

Exciting Developments Unveiled in Grand Rapids!

Residents of Grand Rapids, get ready for a wave of improvements coming your way! The city has just announced some thrilling updates that are sure to enhance our community. From a brand-new park to exciting mixed-use developments, there’s a lot to look forward to!

Multi-Use Park Planned for All Ages

First up, the city has unveiled a stunning rendering of a new multi-use park being built along Cesar E Chavez Ave. Located just north of Martin Luther King Jr St, this park is designed to be an inclusive space suitable for all ages and abilities.

The excitement doesn’t stop there! Groundbreaking for this beautiful park is set for 5 p.m. on April 2, 2025. You’ll want to mark your calendars because city officials—including the Mayor and the Parks and Recreation Director—will be delivering remarks as the shovels hit the dirt! Expect something special to kick off at 5:30 p.m., adding a touch of community spirit as we bring this park to life.

This multi-use park will feature sustainable landscaping, enhanced tree coverage, hammock groves, and community gathering spaces—perfect for those sunny afternoons or family picnics. It’s all part of the broader Plaza Roosevelt Redevelopment Project aimed at transforming our local area.

Mixed-Use Development on the Horizon

In addition to the park, there’s more fabulous news to share! Right next door at 1516 Cesar Chavez Ave. SW, a one-story building will soon make way for a stunning three-story mixed-use development. This project will introduce 17 new apartments along with some fantastic retail space for residents and visitors alike.

Thanks to an $874,000 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation via its Revitalization and Placemaking program, the total cost for this redevelopment project is projected to reach $3.6 million. The apartments will cater to varying needs, with 4 studios, 12 one-bedroom, and 1 two-bedroom unit available.

Here’s the best part: rental rates will be priced below 70% of Kent County’s area median income. The two-bedroom units, for instance, are expected to be offered at $1,322 or less. With affordable housing becoming a priority in Michigan, this project aligns perfectly with ongoing efforts to revitalize and repurpose older buildings for new uses.

The completion of the mixed-use building is anticipated by fall 2025, so residents can look forward to new opportunities in the Roosevelt Park neighborhood that enhance walkability and connectivity.

Changes in Grandville for RiverTown Crossings

RiverTown Crossings mall have plans to demolish an aging two-story parking structure, freeing up *over 2.5 acres* for future redevelopment. This demolition is set to kick off this spring and should wrap up by summer 2025.

While parking capacity will be adjusted from 6,675 to 5,297 spaces, the new surface lot will add 279 spots, ensuring that visitors continue to enjoy convenience while new development opportunities bloom. The mall was recently acquired for $97.4 million, and plans for increased density could lead to new retail shops, hotels, and multifamily housing options.

Future Plans for Community Spaces

14,000 to roughly 60,000-70,000 square feet. This is still in the concept stage, and the city commission is looking into the feasibility of the project while raising funds to make it happen.

Grand Rapids is certainly in for some transformative changes aimed at enriching our community, enhancing walkability, and improving the availability of affordable housing, among other vibrant updates. Stay tuned for updates as these plans come to life!

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Additional Resources

• MLive: Redevelopment of Obsolete Grand Rapids Building Lands State Support
• Crain’s Grand Rapids: Owner to Demolish RiverTown Crossings Parking Deck for Redevelopment
• Detroit News: State Board Approves Incentives for Grand Rapids Projects
• WZZM 13: Grand Rapids Factory Yards Project Fund Approved
• Wood TV: Talk of Housing Development Worries Huff Park Neighbors
• Wikipedia: Grand Rapids, Michigan
• Google Search: Grand Rapids Development News
• Google Scholar: Grand Rapids Redevelopment
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Grand Rapids
• Google News: Grand Rapids 2025

Author: HERE Grand Rapids