City Of Grand Rapids To Break Ground On $9.8M Park Renovation

The City of Grand Rapids soon is breaking ground on a massive park reconstruction project. Check out all the cool stuff to come!

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In early 2024, we told you about the exciting multi-million dollar renovations coming to Canal Park. The riverside spot is located downtown Grand Rapids at 905 Monroe Ave NW.

READ MORE: New $2.3M Park Coming to Grands Rapids

The City of Grand Rapids says the goal is to create a vibrant community hub that promotes accessibility, flood protection, ecological health, and connection to the river.

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Improvements include a river-themed play area, multi-purpose plaza with pavilion, scenic overlooks, river landing with accessible canoe and kayak launch, 14-foot-wide multi-use trail, flood resilience design, and other upgrades like new benches, picnic tables, and lighting.

Seriously, how cool does the Owashtanong Playscape look?

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Before it was the Grand River, the original inhabitants of our city, the Anishinaabek, named it Owashtanong. The new play area was signed in partnership with the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians and it shares history and significance of the Grand River and its significance.

According to the City of Grand Rapids, funding is being provided by Monroe North Tax Increment Financial Authority (MNTIFA), The Right Place Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Grant, and the Parks Capital Fund. The partners working on the project include Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc., MEDC, MNTIFA, Owen Ames Kimball, The Right Place, and Viridis Design Group.

The City of Grand Rapids is holding groundbreaking event on the $9.8 million project April 30, 4 to 5:30p.m. City and community leaders will gather to officially kick off construction for the reimagined Canal Park, with remarks starting at 4:15p.m.

Follow the City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department on Facebook for updates!