GRAND RAPIDS, Mich - A key trust fund grant approved by the state is pushing money towards a project that will have major implications for downtown Grand Rapids and the Grand River Restoration project.
We first told you about a project along the Grand River tentatively called Monroe North Park last year. A $7.5 million dollar investment approved by the Governor this week focuses on the acquisition of several parcels just north of I-196 along the riverfront just west of Monroe Avenue.
The nearly four acres includes grass, trees and views of the river below the Sixth Street dam, a popular urban fishing location.
Eventually, the area would be developed in coordination with the rapids restoration, flood control and mitigation improvements.
Conceptual plans include a tiered, step-down design providing flood control and multi-use public recreation space with full access to river rapids and float boat channel. The site would increase downtown park acreage by 12% while connecting to existing riverfront parks, also linking to the White Pine and Kent trails.
