A Glimpse into the Future: GVSU Unveils Bold Plans for Blue Dot Lab
As you stroll across the Grand River via the iconic Blue Bridge, a familiar sight greets you—the L.V. Eberhard Center, a 1980s classic that’s been a downtown Grand Rapids fixture since 1988. But times are changing, and this beloved building is about to get a major facelift.
On September 19, Grand Valley State University leaders gave us a sneak peek of the future during the Blue Dot Experience, part of The Right Place’s 2024 Tech Week, which showcased the region's thriving tech and innovation scene. The star of the show? The upcoming Blue Dot Lab—a cutting-edge space that will be home to GVSU’s newly minted College of Computing.
Transforming the Eberhard Center
Set to begin its transformation in 2025, the Eberhard Center will be renovated to house the Blue Dot Lab, a hub for innovation, technology, and education. The event featured some of the cool innovations, pilot projects, and courses that will eventually call this space home. Plus, renderings of the redesign revealed big, modern windows and a sleek riverfront walkway that promises better connections downtown.
Advancing Downtown Grand Rapids
It’s all part of the ongoing evolution of downtown Grand Rapids—a place where technology and education are joining forces along the riverfront. During the event, GVSU President Philomena Mantella and Dr. Marouane Kessentini, the new Dean of the College of Computing, emphasized how GVSU students will be prepped and ready to fuel the tech jobs of the future—creating a direct pipeline of talent from West Michigan to the world.
Stay Tuned for More Updates
Excited to see what’s next? Stay tuned for more updates on GVSU’s bold Blue Dot Lab journey and more with the GR& Riverfront.
