News Summary
The Grand River Greenway project, backed by a $150 million investment, aims to add 31 miles of trails over the next two years. Enhancing the existing 85-mile trail network, this initiative will connect over 20 riverfront communities from Grand Haven to Lowell, creating improved outdoor recreation and community connectivity. Environmental restoration efforts are also planned, with funding already secured for key segments of the project. Community leaders see the Greenway as crucial for public health and tourism-driven economic growth.
Grand Rapids – The Grand River Greenway project is on track for completion, with a substantial investment of $150 million aimed at adding 31 miles of new trails over the next two years. This ambitious initiative is set to enhance the existing 85-mile trail network along the Grand River in West Michigan, developing continuous riverside trails and public parks stretching from Grand Haven to Lowell.
Key segments of the project in Kent County are projected to be finalized by the end of 2026. Upon its completion in 2031, the Grand River Greenway will link over 20 riverfront communities and provide access to numerous existing parks while connecting several hundred miles of trails in Kent and Ottawa counties to Lake Michigan.
The Grand River Greenway’s development marks a significant shift towards creating a network that connects areas in West Michigan, traditionally accessible by car, to a more integrated outdoor recreation landscape. Kent County leaders have highlighted the trail’s potential to improve community connectivity, allowing residents and visitors to travel seamlessly from the beach in Grand Haven to Lowell and other nearby areas.
Collaborative Effort and Funding
This extensive project is rooted in collaboration among municipal authorities and community partners. Approximately 65%-70% of the necessary funding for the Kent County segment has already been secured. Acknowledging the foundational support from Ottawa County, the Greenway was initially envisioned over 35 years ago, underscoring the long-term commitment to this project.
The Grand River Greenway is seen as not only an important recreational space but also an economic driver for the region. Increased outdoor recreational opportunities are expected to promote public health and draw tourism, which has become more prominent in the context of the ongoing pandemic as interest in outdoor spaces has surged.
Environmental Restoration and Accessibility Initiatives
Part of the Greenway’s vision includes environmental restoration efforts, such as the removal of dangerous dams and invasive species like the sea lamprey. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has allocated $2.1 million in grants aimed at supporting the installation of a sea lamprey barrier upstream from an existing dam. The Grand Rapids Whitewater initiative, focused on restoring rapids since 2009, plans to commence work in the summer of 2026.
Upcoming Developments
Several key projects are scheduled for completion within the next year, including:
- Non-motorized bridges over both the Grand River and Rogue River.
- Linkage of the White Pine Trail to the trail network in Ada Township.
- Development of six miles of mountain bike trails at Johnson Park in Walker, set to open by spring 2026.
- New river access adjacent to the Acrisure Amphitheater in downtown Grand Rapids.
An official groundbreaking ceremony for the river access initiative is slated for August 21. This $19 million project will transform industrial space into green space along a half-mile stretch of the river, emphasizing the importance of enhancing public access to the natural environment.
Future Plans and Challenges
The Grand River Greenway plans to create recreational spaces that accommodate both urban and rural settings, further enhancing outdoor engagement opportunities. Ongoing discussions surrounding public easements and property acquisitions are underway as segments of the trail continue to be designed. Moreover, the Johnson Park project intends to feature new mountain biking trails designed to respect the area’s topography and cater to a range of skill levels, including adaptive riders.
In summary, the Grand River Greenway project represents a seminal development in West Michigan’s recreational landscape. With escalating funding and active community support, the initiative is poised to create lasting benefits in community connectivity and environmental restoration by the anticipated completion date of 2031.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Park Upgrades Planned for Kent County in 2025
Additional Resources
- MLive: 85-Mile Trail System Linking Lake Michigan to Grand Rapids
- Google Search: Grand River Greenway
- Crain’s Grand Rapids: $150M Investment Planned for Kent County Section of Regional River Trail
- Wikipedia: Grand River (Michigan)
- Wood TV: Grand River Greenway Nearly Complete
- Google Scholar: Grand River Greenway
- Singletracks: Grand Rapids MI is Getting Feature-Packed MTB Trails
- Google News: Grand Rapids Trail System
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.
