$306K approved for Grand Rapids White Water study, Blue Bridge repair, downtown events

The Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority has approved some $306,000 in funding for three projects affecting the economic vitality of downtown's Center City.
 
On August 8, the Downtown Development Authority approved a grant not to exceed $31,800 for the cost of designing and engineering work on the Blue Bridge, built in 1892 as the Indiana Railroad Bridge. The bridge now serves as a popular pedestrian gateway between Grand Valley State University's Pew Campus on the west bank of the Grand River and Center City. It is the oldest railroad bridge spanning the Grand River.
 
Rehabilitation includes painting the bridge, repairing the deck and replacing lighting. The full project will run some $1.3 million.
 
"The Blue Bridge is an important feature of the downtown and the first historic landmark designated in Grand Rapids outside of a neighborhood," says Downtown Development Authority Executive Director Kristopher Larson. "[The rehabilitation means] we'll be able to continue to enjoy it in the near and far term."
 
Also approved, a grant up to $100,000 for a phase 2 feasibility study by Grand Rapids WhiteWater to restore the rapids in the Grand River for kayaking, canoeing and rafting. Phase 1 determined restoring the rapids was not only feasible, but would generate social, economic and environmental benefits.
 
A $175,000 grant to the Downtown Alliance will help that organization market the downtown as a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, theater and entertainment. The Downtown Alliance supports a growing number of community events downtown, including ArtPrize, LaughFest and Restaurant Week.
 
"It's important for the Downtown Development Authority to keep the vision of the downtown, working with the planning department to create an overall vision for the community," Larson says. "We're to be an open and transparent body. We have an existing committee action-group structure in experience, economy and environment, working with volunteers who seek to be involved in developing and advancing the downtown."
 
Source: Kristopher Larson, Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority; Downtown Development Authority Media Release of August 8, 2012
Writer: Deborah Johnson Wood, Development News Editor