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City of Grand Rapids awards contract for Grand River Revitalization Project

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- Feb 25, 2026

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The Grand Rapids City Commission has approved a $14.56 million construction contract with Taplin Group LLC for the Grand River Revitalization Project, marking a major milestone in restoring the city’s namesake rapids and improving riverfront access.

The project will restore natural rapids in the Grand River, enhance public safety, improve aquatic habitats for native fish and mussel species, and expand recreational opportunities in and along the river. It also includes park improvements in Ah-Nab-Awen Park coordinated with the Parks and Recreation Department.

“This is a historic moment for Grand Rapids,” said Mayor David LaGrand. “After 17 years of planning and collaboration, we are finally bringing the rapids back to the Grand River. This project will transform our riverfront and create lasting benefits for residents and visitors.”

Grand Rapids Whitewater Executive Director Matt Chapman expressed similar excitement saying, “We’ve worked tirelessly with partners and the community to make this vision a reality. Today’s approval represents a major milestone as we shift from planning to implementation and a is a proud moment for everyone who believed in restoring the river. With this award we will begin a transformation and leave legacy for future generations.

The first phase (or Lower Reach) of the Grand River Revitalization Project will be from I-196 to Fulton St. where four dams will be removed and replaced with natural rock features. Ah-Nab-Awen Park from Gillett Bridge to Bridge St. will be the main staging area for the project and will be closed for construction starting this spring. Construction is estimated to take two years to complete.  The Lower Reach project is supported by multiple funding sources, including a State of Michigan Enhancement Grant, the City’s Capital Improvement Fund, Parks Capital Fund and contributions from Grand Rapids Whitewater. The City also has a pending federal request with the Natural Resource Conservation Service.

The second phase of the Grand River Revitalization (or Upper Reach project) is the project that contemplates the removal and replacement of the 6th St dam. Since the 6th St. is the first sea lamprey barrier on the Grand River, this work is being led by the Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC) in partnership with the City of Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Whitewater, and numerous state and federal agencies. The GLFC are beginning its Environmental Impact Statement work. More information on how the community can be involved on that project will be forthcoming in the next few months.

For more information about the Grand River Revitalization Project, visit grandrapidswhitewater.org.