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Grand Rapids Set for Major Redevelopment Projects

Transformations underway in Grand Rapids with new residential and commercial developments.

News Summary

Grand Rapids is on the verge of transformation with exciting new development projects underway. A dilapidated building at 1007 Wealthy St. SE is set to be transformed into vibrant apartments and retail spaces, while Gaslight Village is slated for a major reinvention, including new housing options. The community is buzzing with anticipation as these developments promise to enhance living spaces and create more local amenities, reflecting the city’s commitment to growth and diversity. With formal approvals needed, the future looks bright for Grand Rapids residents.

Exciting Changes Coming to Grand Rapids with New Development Projects!

Grand Rapids is buzzing with anticipation as a run-down building at 1007 Wealthy St. SE is soon to be transformed into vibrant apartments and lively retail space. This once dilapidated two-story structure sits conveniently nestled between popular hangouts, The Electric Cheetah and The Meanwhile Bar. Local real estate mogul Brad Veneklase, the proud owner of Urban Soil Realty, snagged the building for $194,000 last year, and it’s clear he’s got some ambitious plans for the site!

What’s on the Horizon?

So, what can folks expect from this redevelopment? The plan aims to breathe new life into the building, morphing it into both residential apartments and chic retail spaces. The excitement doesn’t stop there, as the Grand Rapids area is buzzing with new projects sprouting up everywhere! Just recently, there’s been talk of a mixed-use project near Celebration Cinema North, giving even more options to enjoy life in our great city.

But that’s not all! Several residential projects are under consideration, and a proposed drive-thru deli is on the cards, offering quick bites for busy residents. It looks like Grand Rapids is ready to embrace a vibrant future, but there’s more to it than meets the eye!

Gaslight Village Set for Reinvention

Mark your calendars! A public hearing is slated for Monday night to discuss a transformative plan to reinvent Gaslight Village. This plan has seen multiple revisions since its original approval in 2004, with several delays along the way. The latest proposal outlines the addition of three mixed-use residential and commercial buildings at 2255 Wealthy Street, along with one purely residential building and two rows of townhomes.

In total, the redeveloped area would include 180 new housing units, offering a diverse mix of condos, apartments, and townhouses. The exciting part? 10% of these new housing units will be dedicated to “attainable housing,” aimed at residents making between 100% and 120% of the area median income. That’s a win for accessibility!

Residents in the community are voicing their approval of more housing options downtown but have expressed some concerns regarding the project’s scale and building heights. It seems like a balancing act, but the redevelopment plan is backed by thorough studies comprising parking, pollution impacts, storm sewers, and traffic flow to ensure it works for everyone.

More Vibrant Housing Developments

Meanwhile, there’s more excitement around the corner! First-time developer Bryce Hansen is diving into the Grand Rapids scene with plans for a new three-story apartment building in downtown. This project aims to offer mixed-income housing with 26 units, where 20% will be set aside for individuals earning between 80% and 120% of the area median income.

The Grand Rapids City Commission has given the green light to a 12-month option agreement for Hansen to acquire a 0.2-acre property from the city’s land bank. Creating even more space for community, the proposed apartment project will include a ground floor packed with parking spots and bike racks, and a total of 44 units spread across three floors. It’s going to be an impressive mix of studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments!

While the Grand Rapids Planning Department has already determined that Hansen’s preliminary plans align with zoning requirements, formal approval is still on the horizon. With a wave of developments on the way, it’s an exhilarating time to live in Grand Rapids, and residents can look forward to enhanced living options and a more vibrant community.