GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A major road in downtown Grand Rapids is set to re-open today.
According to a release from city spokesperson Steven Guitar, Pearl Street will reopen to traffic Sunday. The street has undergoing construction from Mount Vernon to the Pearl Street Bridge since May.
“I know that the thousands of drivers who traverse this section of Grand Rapids will really appreciate the smoothness of the newly constructed roadway,” Communications Director Steve Guitar said. “We thank the businesses and museums in the area for their patience as we enhanced Pearl. We also thank the thousands of commuters and pedestrians inconvenienced during the construction period.”
The construction included removing and replacing concrete and installing infiltration basins to help with stormwater. Sidewalk ramps were also upgraded to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
This road project was funded by a $500,000 federal grant through the Michigan Department of Transportation and a $800,000 contribution from Vital Streets.
Next year, this stretch of Pearl will see streetscape improvements that will include completing the remaining sidewalk work and installing features such as street trees, seating, lighting, and planters.
