News Summary
Construction on Plainfield Avenue in Grand Rapids has temporarily paused, allowing traffic to flow again. The Michigan Department of Transportation anticipates resuming work on necessary improvements that include resurfacing and traffic signal upgrades. Local businesses are concerned about reduced customer traffic due to construction signage. Despite this, the long-term benefits of the project focusing on safety and traffic calming are emphasized by officials. Additionally, leadership changes at Cella Building Co. signal new developments in the construction landscape of the area, aiming for sustainable growth.
Grand Rapids—Construction on Plainfield Avenue has temporarily paused, reopening the road to traffic after weeks of work. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) expects construction will resume in a couple of weeks. This project, which stretches from I-96 to Airway Street NE, includes necessary improvements such as resurfacing, traffic signal upgrades, and the installation of new landscaped medians.
The primary goals of this construction project are to calm traffic and enhance safety for both drivers and pedestrians. However, local businesses have expressed concerns over the impact of ongoing construction on customer traffic. For instance, the manager at Real Food Café noted that some customers are avoiding the area due to the intimidating construction signs. Nonetheless, regular patrons continue to support the café, emphasizing the importance of the improvements for the long-term benefit of the community. Similarly, Robert Roblin, a longtime barber in the area, reported that attracting new customers has become more challenging amid the construction, as potential clients opt to stay away.
Though the construction work is expected to continue through November, local officials emphasize that the project aims to reduce crashes and create a more welcoming environment. The MDOT’s focus on safety and efficiency aligns with broader city plans, which will see numerous street and sidewalk improvements beginning in 2025, enhanced by funding from the Vital Streets millage.
In parallel with these transportation developments, recent leadership changes at Cella Building Co. mark an exciting new chapter for the company. Steve Achram has acquired a majority equity stake, stepping in as CEO following the retirement of Mike Coyne. With over 23 years of industry experience, Achram is eager to guide Cella in a direction that emphasizes a holistic approach to development, design, and construction. Notably, Peter Skornia will stay on as Cella’s president, tasked with overseeing day-to-day operations in the wake of this transition. Cella has built a strong reputation in the Grand Rapids area, having completed significant projects like the all-electric mixed-use building, Bradford Station.
Achram’s vision includes exploring new sectors and business areas to ensure substantial growth, with a strong emphasis on sustainable and high-performing buildings. Such initiatives resonate with the city’s overarching goals to improve infrastructure and living standards for its residents.
As part of Grand Rapids’ commitment to improving urban spaces, City Engineer Tim Burkman announced multiple street and sidewalk improvement projects planned for the upcoming years. These projects will include extensive work on S. Division Avenue, Leonard Street, Ann Street, Boston Street, and Plainfield Avenue, along with necessary sidewalk repairs, bridge maintenance, and additional street resurfacing throughout neighborhoods. The city’s efforts aim to reshape travel within the community while minimizing disruptions for residents and local businesses.
The city of Grand Rapids continues to focus on enhancing communication regarding construction projects to keep the public informed and involved. A Construction Season Kickoff event is scheduled for March 25, providing a platform for residents to ask questions and learn about upcoming initiatives. Over the past eleven years, improvements brought about by the Vital Streets initiative have resulted in a significant increase in the percentage of streets rated as “Good” or “Fair,” climbing from 37% to 61%. As projects progress and leadership shifts, Grand Rapids is poised to evolve its transportation and urban landscape, ensuring a better future for its community.
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Additional Resources
- Wood TV: Construction Underway on Plainfield Avenue
- WZZM13: Major Construction Projects in Grand Rapids
- MLive: Downtown Grand Rapids Street Closure
- Google Search: Grand Rapids Construction
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction in Michigan
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.
