The Future of Grand Rapids: Voices from the Community
Grand Rapids' Future: Community Voices on Economic Growth, Vibrancy, and Innovation.
What excites you most about the future of Grand Rapids?
This was the question posed to the city’s community leaders at last month’s Grand Rapids Chamber’s Annual Meeting. As Grand Rapids is in the midst of ongoing transformation – with major developments, a thriving arts and entertainment scene, and a growing business community – their answers showcase a city on the rise, full of opportunity, innovation, and community spirit
Housing and a Strong Business Environment
As Grand Rapids continues to grow, ensuring access to housing and economic opportunity remains a priority. The city is working to create an environment where both businesses and residents can thrive.
"I'm super excited for the growth that we're having, for the people coming into the city for events, and from a business perspective, the industry growth we’re seeing,” said Ann Callahan, Business Engagement Manager at Consumers Credit Union. “We’re also working to bring young people back into Grand Rapids for job opportunities."
With investments pouring into key industries, the local economy is set for long-term expansion. Business leaders see this as just the start.
"What I'm most excited about is that we’re at the very beginning of what I think will be an incredibly robust five years,” said Rick Baker, President and CEO at the Grand Rapids Chamber. “The community is going to see so many projects that make Grand Rapids an even better place to live and more exciting for people to move here."
“The community is going to see so many projects that make Grand Rapids an even better place to live and more exciting for people to move here.”
Acrisure Amphitheater construction site. Set to open in 2026.
Community Vibrancy: A City on the Move
But Grand Rapids is more than just a place to live – it’s a place to experience. From public art and live music to sports and food festivals, the city is buzzing with cultural energy.
"What I'm most excited about for Grand Rapids is ArtPrize,” said Tara McCrackin, president at Kendall College of Art and Design. “We're back. It's bigger than ever. It’s the largest international public art competition, and it’s right here. We turn downtown into an exhibition."
The return of ArtPrize is just one example of how the city continues to embrace creativity. The same momentum is building in the entertainment scene, making Grand Rapids a top destination for concerts and sporting events.
"I’m really excited about the [Acrisure] Amphitheater,” said Ashley Diersch, Chief Advancement Officer at Paws with a Cause. “I’m looking forward to outdoor concerts, going to things like the Rise and the Whitecaps, and just watching us continue to elevate our presence in the sports and entertainment scene."
Transformational Projects: Redefining the Cityscape
With ambitious developments underway, Grand Rapids is reshaping its skyline and public spaces, creating new opportunities for connection and growth.
"I’m real excited about the [Amway] Stadium breaking ground,” said Dave Walker, Public Policy Advisor at Corewell Health. “[With] all the development along the riverfront, I think it’s going to really remake the face of Grand Rapids. I can’t wait to watch soccer downtown with my daughters."
The Riverfront revitalization is just one piece of a larger transformation happening downtown. From new housing and commercial spaces to parks and entertainment venues, every project contributes to a more vibrant city.
"I'm really excited about what's going to be happening in the downtown community in Grand Rapids,” said Jeff Karger, Executive Vice President, Brokerage at JLL. “There's a lot of interesting developments coming on. We’re in a transformative period, and I’m excited to see how these new projects contribute to the vibrancy of our city."
“I’m real excited about the [Amway] Stadium breaking ground. [With] all the development along the riverfront, I think it’s going to really remake the face of Grand Rapids. I can’t wait to watch soccer downtown with my daughters.”
Rendering of upcoming Amway Stadium, home of West Michigan Pro Soccer.
A City Built on Innovation and Collaboration
More than just development and growth, the future of Grand Rapids is about fostering connections, between industries, communities, and people. Innovation and collaboration are at the heart of what’s ahead.
"Grand Rapids really feels like a city of change, growth, and evolution,” said Jaime Counterman, Chief Advancement Officer at Hope Network. “We’re here for the innovation, the collaboration.”
Steve LaWarre, Senior Vice President at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, added, "So many different things excite me about Grand Rapids – the downtown construction, the events at Meijer Gardens, and food truck festivals. Every season in Grand Rapids has something amazing happening."
With its mix of culture, business growth, and urban revitalization, Grand Rapids is stepping into the future with momentum. The best part? This is only the beginning.
“Grand Rapids really feels like a city of change, growth, and evolution. We’re here for the innovation, the collaboration.”
What excites you most about the future of Grand Rapids?
For the latest on everything happening along the Grand River corridor, stay locked to GrandRiverfront.com.
