News Summary
Grand Rapids has initiated a $9 million project to expand and renovate the Oxford Trail, enhancing connectivity between downtown and local neighborhoods. Set to commence in September and wrap up by 2026, the project includes a range of new amenities aimed at fostering community interaction. Funded by the American Rescue Plan and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., this initiative is also part of the broader Grand River Greenway plan to improve outdoor recreational options citywide.
Grand Rapids has begun a significant $9 million project to expand and renovate the Oxford Trail, enhancing connectivity and recreational opportunities for its residents. This initiative involves revitalizing a 1.5-mile stretch of the trail that connects downtown Grand Rapids with the Black Hills and Roosevelt Park neighborhoods.
The construction for this project is scheduled to start in September and is projected to be completed by 2026. The Grand Rapids City Commission has approved the project, which will be executed by Ada-based Erhardt Construction.
Funding for the Oxford Trail improvements includes $1 million allocated from the American Rescue Plan Act and an $8 million grant provided by Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI). These funds are part of a more extensive $55 million state grant awarded in 2022 for the broader Grand River Greenway project.
As part of the renovations, several new amenities will be added to the trail, including a small performance amphitheater, grills, picnic tables, bike repair stations, playground equipment, benches, lighting, fencing, and drinking fountains. These upgrades aim to foster community interaction and recreational use of the space.
The existing Oxford Trail currently starts at Wealthy Street, crosses the Grand River, and continues south to Oxford Street. The planned renovation will extend the trail to connect to Hall Street. This initiative seeks to create a “universally accessible, non-motorized trailway and greenspace” that will function as both a transportation route and a recreational area.
The design of the project was influenced by community feedback, ensuring that it will serve as an accessible and multifunctional gathering space that respects and celebrates the cultural history of the surrounding neighborhoods. The extension of the trail will improve connectivity between the Black Hills and Roosevelt Park neighborhoods and downtown Grand Rapids, enhancing the overall linkages within the regional trail system along the Grand River.
Construction Details
Approximately 15% of the construction work will be subcontracted to a Micro Local Business Enterprise (MLBE) firm, supporting local businesses and contributing to economic development in the area.
Broader Context
The enhancements to the Oxford Trail are part of the extensive Grand River Greenway initiative, which aims to develop a continuous network of trails along the Grand River stretching from Lowell to Lake Michigan, totaling 85 miles. This larger initiative seeks to improve outdoor recreational options, support economic development, and enhance the natural beauty along the river corridor.
As Grand Rapids embarks on this exciting project, the community is looking forward to a revitalized Oxford Trail that will not only bolster local connections but also encourage outdoor activities, thus promoting a healthier lifestyle for its residents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Grand Rapids City Commission Approves Oxford Trail Renovation
Additional Resources
- Fox 17 News
- Wikipedia: Grand Rapids
- MLive
- Google Search: Oxford Trail Grand Rapids
- Crain’s Grand Rapids
- Google Scholar: Oxford Trail renovation
- Spectrum Local News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: trail renovation
- MLive
- Google News: Grand Rapids Oxford Trail
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
