September 18, 2025

Grand Rapids Seeks Public Feedback on Grand River Restoration Project

News Summary

Grand Rapids is inviting public comments on its environmental impact assessment for a major project to restore the Grand River’s rapids and enhance local ecosystems. The city is applying for $11 million from the USDA, with the project focused on removing low-head dams and adding 20,000 tons of natural rock. A 30-day public comment period is open, allowing residents to provide feedback, which will be considered before finalizing the environmental assessment. The initiative aims to improve aquatic habitats and recreational opportunities along the river.

Grand Rapids is currently seeking public feedback regarding an environmental impact assessment for a significant project aimed at restoring the Grand River’s rapids. The city is requesting $11 million in assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support this restoration effort, which entails the removal of four low-head dams situated from just north of Bridge Street to Fulton Street.

Integral to this project is the addition of approximately 20,000 tons of natural rock and boulders to the river. As part of the funding application process, an environmental assessment must be completed, examining factors such as air quality, noise, land use, and public health. The 30-day public comment period for the environmental assessment commenced on September 15, allowing community members to voice their opinions and concerns.

Public Participation Details

Members of the public can submit their comments online or by mailing written feedback to the USDA’s East Lansing address. After the comment period ends, the final version of the environmental assessment will be included with the funding application to the USDA.

Project Goals and Background

The overarching aim of the restoration project is to enhance aquatic habitats for native Great Lakes fish and mussel species, while simultaneously increasing public access and recreational opportunities along the river. The project has received preliminary approval from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) in December 2022, paving the way for further developments.

The total projected cost of the project hovers around $20 million, with Grand Rapids Whitewater collaborating with the city on this comprehensive Grand River restoration initiative. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) must approve the project to facilitate its progression. The river restoration project manager has indicated that the NRCS review process is expected to conclude by the end of the year.

Timeline and Potential Delays

Earlier this year, the city faced complications when it withdrew a request for construction bids due to ongoing delays in the NRCS permit review, impacting the anticipated timeline for the project. Initially, city officials hoped to start construction in the summer of 2023, but projections have now shifted to a potential start in the summer of 2026.

Current preparations include divers relocating approximately 14,000 to 15,000 native mussels from the project area, a process expected to be completed by October. To support these efforts, the city has recently approved an expenditure of $1.26 million for mussel relocation. Additionally, a $7 million contract has been secured from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, aimed at facilitating the removal of the dams and the installation of rock substrates essential for the revitalization efforts.

Challenges and Considerations

The project has encountered several delays and obstacles in its lengthy planning stage, which has spanned over fifteen years and includes multiple revisions since inception. Officials faced scrutiny from state and federal regulatory bodies concerning the environmental impact of the project, necessitating thorough assessments and community input before moving forward.

In summary, Grand Rapids is actively engaging the public in its plans for the Grand River restoration project, aiming to secure funding and implement changes that will directly benefit local ecosystems and recreational spaces. With various stakeholders involved and the community’s feedback under consideration, this project stands as a significant step toward improving the Grand River’s natural habitat and public accessibility.

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Additional Resources

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.

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STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER

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