Above the Streets: The Evolution of Grand Rapids’ Skywalk System
The future of Grand Rapids’ skywalk system is set to grow, with a seperate skybridge linking the YMCA, GVSU’s Seward parking ramp, and Amway Stadium on the Westside.
For decades, Grand Rapids’ skywalk has provided a weather-proof way to navigate downtown. Connecting businesses, hotels, entertainment venues, and parking garages, this network of elevated walkways has made traversing downtown more efficient, while enhancing the city’s walkability and accessibility. Now, a separate skybridge is being planned in Grand Rapids’ Westside, linking the YMCA and the eventual Amway Stadium to the GVSU parking garage.
Let’s take a journey through the history and impact of Grand Rapids’ skywalk system and how this feature has come to become an essential part of the city’s infrastructure.
The History of the Grand Rapids Skywalk System
Inspired by similar systems in cities like Minneapolis, the Grand Rapids skywalk system was first built in the 1980s. Much like downtown’s revitalization, it all started with the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, originally linking to a parking ramp as a way to provide weather-protected access for visitors. The skywalk was continuously developed in phases over the years, expanding south to connect Van Andel Arena and north to DeVos Place.
Prioritized by a variety of public-private partnerships, the skywalk has evolved to enhance downtown mobility, economic development, and accessibility, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can move through the city comfortably in any season.
The Impact: Connecting People, Businesses, and Experiences
The skywalk isn’t just about getting from point A to point B – it’s about enhancing life downtown and welcoming visitors, any time of the year.
A defining advantage of the system is its ability to make Grand Rapids a year-round walkable city, offering a safe and comfortable way to navigate downtown, regardless of the season. Whether shielding pedestrians from harsh winter winds or summer downpours, the skywalk provides a reliable and accessible route for both residents and visitors. Many locals have come to rely on the skywalk for daily commutes, or walk it end-to-end for exercise, while visitors appreciate the ease of moving between hotels, convention spaces, and entertainment venues.
“Anything we can do to make downtown more welcoming and pedestrian-friendly [is] generally really good for people to live in, to work in, [and] to come visit,” said Melvin Eledge, Director of Operations at Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc.
Beyond convenience, the skywalk also plays a critical role in supporting downtown businesses. By connecting key attractions like DeVos Place, Van Andel Arena, Amway Grand Plaza, and everything in between, the skywalk system enhances Grand Rapids' reputation as a premier convention, business, and entertainment hub. This connection also contributes to economic growth by driving foot traffic to downtown businesses, restaurants, and retailers. Visitors heading to a concert or conference are more likely to stop for dinner or drinks along the way, boosting the vibrancy of downtown commerce. Its accessibility features, including elevators and ramps, ensure that Grand Rapids remains an inclusive and pedestrian-friendly city, offering mobility options for everyone.
The skywalk is yet another a reflection of Grand Rapids’ innovative approach to urban design. Much like the renovated Lyon Square, the skywalk has created a more dynamic and connected downtown that encourages exploration and engagement. Whether someone is attending a Griffins game, heading to a business meeting, or simply taking a stroll, the skywalk makes the journey smoother and more enjoyable.
“Anything we can do to make downtown more welcoming and pedestrian-friendly [is] generally really good for people to live in, to work in, [and] to come visit”
The Future: Expanding the Skywalk’s Reach
With the continued growth of downtown Grand Rapids, a proposed skybridge, separate from the current one, would connect the YMCA, GVSU’s Seward parking ramp, and Amway Stadium, bringing the skybridge concept to the Westside. This project, still in its early stages, is being developed in collaboration with Grand Action 2.0 as part of a broader vision to enhance accessibility and urban connectivity. The YMCA has already finalized a parking agreement with GVSU, allowing members to use spaces in the Seward Parking Ramp during their visits. Since peak usage times differ for the YMCA and GVSU, this arrangement is a win-win for downtown, maximizing parking efficiency while improving convenience for members.
Walking into the Future
The Grand Rapids skywalk has evolved alongside the city and is a shining example of the city’s growth and ambition – connecting people and places in a way that makes downtown more accessible, vibrant, and enjoyable. Its emphasis on supporting local businesses, enhancing mobility, and providing a year-round, pedestrian-friendly experience has cemented its place as one of downtown Grand Rapids’ most beloved features. With new developments on the horizon, skywalks will continue to play a crucial role in shaping how residents and visitors experience the city – one step above the streets.
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