Grand Rapids breaks ground on Grand River Restoration – Lower Reach

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Excitement echoed across downtown Grand Rapids and its Gillett Bridge today as local, regional and tribal partners joined community members to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Grand River Restoration – Lower Reach. The event marked a major step forward for one of West Michigan’s most ambitious environmental restoration efforts.

As part of the celebration, members of the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Water Protectors performed a powerful Blessing of the Waters ceremony. Following this meaningful moment, project leaders placed the first rocks into the river, symbolizing the official start of in‑river work and honoring the long‑standing vision that guided the community to this point.

A vision moves into construction

The restoration of the Grand River’s natural rapids began nearly two decades ago as a bold idea championed by Grand Rapids WhiteWater and community advocates committed to revitalizing the downtown river corridor and restoring the city’s namesake rapids.

What began as an ambitious environmental restoration concept evolved into a multi‑agency, multi‑year partnership involving federal, local, state and tribal partners; rigorous scientific study; and extensive public engagement. Today’s groundbreaking marks the moment this long‑held vision becomes reality.

“Today is more than a groundbreaking — it’s a celebration of what happens when a community commits to a shared vision and stays with it,” Mayor David LaGrand said. “Restoring the Grand River’s natural rapids will strengthen our environment, expand safe access to the water and create new opportunities for residents and visitors. I’m grateful to the many partners who have worked for years to bring us to this moment.”

About the Lower Reach phase

The Lower Reach, stretching from I‑196 to Fulton Street, is the first major construction phase of the Grand River Restoration. The City Commission recently approved a $14.56 million construction contract with Taplin Group LLC to complete this work. Construction is expected to take approximately two years.

Key project elements include:

• Removal of four low‑head dams to eliminate dangerous hydraulics and improve public safety
• Installation of natural rock structures—boulder arches, riffles, emergent habitat boulders, and bank vanes
• Enhancement of aquatic habitat across 2,887 feet and 30 acres of river corridor
• Improved habitat for native Great Lakes fish and protected species, including lake sturgeon, river redhorse, and snuffbox mussel

Together, these improvements will support long‑term habitat diversity, increased fish passage and greater ecological resilience.

Federal, state, local and community partnership

Regional partners have emphasized the restoration as an investment in public safety, environmental health and outdoor recreation. Community leaders highlighted the project’s importance to West Michigan and its role in reconnecting residents with the river that has defined the region for generations.

Grand Rapids WhiteWater Executive Director Matt Chapman applauded the shift from planning to construction, noting that today’s milestone represents a legacy‑setting moment for everyone committed to restoring the Grand River.

“This is a milestone our community has been working toward for nearly two decades,” Chapman said.“Moving from planning to construction means we’re finally bringing the vision of a restored, living river to life. The work we’re beginning today will improve habitat, expand recreational opportunities and reconnect people to the water in the heart of Grand Rapids.”

Restoring the river for future generations

Once completed, the Grand River Restoration will:

• Restore the historic rapids that gave Grand Rapids its name
• Expand safe public access and create new recreation opportunities
• Support a healthier river ecosystem
• Strengthen economic vitality along the riverfront

“This project will transform our riverfront, improve access to the water and create a healthier, more vibrant river for generations,” Mayor LaGrand said.

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