Grand Rapids city officials gathered Monday morning to break ground on a highly anticipated $45 million expansion of the downtown riverfront park system. The project, which has been in development for three years, will add 12 acres of green space, a new amphitheater, and a dedicated cycling trail along the Grand River.

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss called the project a transformative moment for the city. The expansion is expected to be completed by fall 2027 and will include sustainable landscaping, public art installations, and improved flood mitigation infrastructure.

Local businesses along Monroe Avenue are already reporting increased interest from investors looking to capitalize on the revitalized waterfront corridor. The project is partially funded through a combination of federal infrastructure grants and private donations.