Big Moves in Grand Rapids and Northville
Tuesday was a big day for Grand Rapids and Northville, as the Michigan Strategic Fund board gave the go-ahead for several significant projects across both cities. The projects, which include a mixed-used development in Grand Rapids and public amenities in Northville, are expected to inject new energy into these communities.
The grand plans for Grand Rapids
In Grand Rapids, a whopping $252.3 million incentive from the Transformational Brownfield Plan was approved for some noteworthy changes. A shiny new amphitheater, a proposed soccer stadium, and other associated developments are all on the agenda. These projects are expected to generate over $700 million in investment for Grand Rapids, so there’s quite a bit to look forward to!
As part of this bold plan, the Acrisure Amphitheater under construction on 201 Market Ave. will get a big boost. This massive 296,109-square-foot space will feature 12,160 seats, making it the city’s go-to venue for great outside events. Plus, they’re planning for a huge residential complex with 475 units and its own parking garage. Talk about city planning!
That’s not all. The west side of the city is also set to get a new 134,500-square-foot, 8,500-seat soccer stadium. The stadium will be part of ‘The Stadium District Tower,’ a mixed-use development, boasting retail or restaurant space, office space, 260 apartment units, and an ample parking structure.
With these investments, Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss believes that this immense project will be a win-win for everyone. As she puts it: “Projects like the amphitheater and the soccer stadium will not only benefit local businesses but also spur new development and breathe new life into our underutilized riverfront property.”
Northville gets a new lease on life
The folks over in Northville have big plans too. The fund board officially agreed to their request for a state tax capture worth up to $2.08 million. These funds are expected to help transform the 7.85-acre former Northville Downs site into something the community can really enjoy.
The tax capture is set to fund public benefits planned for the site, as well as help cover infrastructure improvement costs. The centerpiece of the project is the plan to restore the Rouge River closer to its natural state while creating a delightful public park. Once completed, this project is expected to provide heaps of recreational benefits to the people of Northville and other nearby areas.
But there’s more to it than just rehabilitating the river and building a park. Hunter Pasteur – the main developer of the project – also plans to build a community around this natural gem, with the addition of houses, townhouses, condos, apartments, and small businesses. Plus, with two major parks and new pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular connectivity, Northville residents are in for a treat!
These projects are also bagging financial support from federal and state departments, and a local fridge manufacturing company called Northland Corp is planning to expand its Greenville facility and create up to 200 new jobs.
