City invites community members to Commission Night Out March 31

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The City of Grand Rapids invites residents to attend the first Commission Night Out (CNO) of the year, Tuesday, March 31 at 6 p.m., at GRPS University, 1400 Fuller Ave. NE. The event will feature the 7 p.m. regular City Commission meeting along with an opportunity for residents to learn about major road construction projects planned for 2026 prior to the meeting. CNO brings city government into the community, giving attendees a first‑hand look at how decisions are made and how public input shapes City work.

Taking a cue from last year’s successful larger construction‑focused event, this more intimate event will include a table where neighbors can learn about four key upcoming road projects, review timelines, and planned upgrades to improve safety, mobility and infrastructure. Additionally, there will be resources and information available for business owners to learn about during construction season. This summer, the City is planning work on more than 100 street projects totaling an investment from Vital Streets of more than $51 million.

City staff will have an information table with details about planned improvements on:

• Buchanan Avenue from Hall Street to Corinne Street ­­– September to November 2026 and spring 2027. The project will include a full street closure, replacement of lead service lines and water main work. This is a full reconstruction project with an estimated investment of $5.88 million.
• Burton Street from Division Avenue to Kalamazoo Avenue – April to November 2026. The street will be closed at times during construction. The project includes lead service line replacement, water main improvements, sidewalk and curb ramp upgrades, and new asphalt pavement. The planned investment for this work is about $11.17 million.
• Cesar Chavez Avenue from Beacon Street to Hall Street – March 30 to August 2026. The project will include a full closure, lead service line replacement, water main work and full reconstruction. The total investment for this section is about $3.5 million.
• Monroe Avenue from Coldbrook Street to Newberry Street – April to June 2026. This project focuses on resurfacing the roadway and upgrading sidewalks and curb ramps. The investment for this work is about $1.15 million.

Commission Night Out is designed to be welcoming and accessible for all ages, building on elements that made last year’s event popular. Residents will have the chance to speak with City leaders, learn about programs and services, and see how planned improvements will benefit their community. Light snacks will be provided.

For more information about Commission Night Out or upcoming road construction projects, visit  https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/roadconstruction.

The City Commission meeting will air on Comcast Channel 26 and be live streamed on the City of Grand Rapids Facebook page and YouTube channel.

# # #