What’s Next for Housing in Grand Rapids?
Brooke Oosterman, Executive Director at Housing Next.
An Interview with Housing Next Executive Director Brooke Oosterman
Brooke Oosterman, executive director at Housing Next, understands both the housing challenges and opportunities of West Michigan. With a projected need for 35,000 new units in Kent County, and 50,000 regionally by 2027, Housing Next and its partners are focused on increasing supply across various price points, particularly for middle-income households.
“We’re looking at more innovative housing typologies, allowing us to not only produce at scale but also in a way that is more cost-effective for households that need that option,” said Oosterman.
Transforming Grand Rapids River-Front Doors
The current revitalization of the Grand Rapids riverfront seeks to play a key role in West Michigan’s strategy to meet this housing need. This development aims to convert underutilized land into a vibrant and dynamic urban space that enhances river access, links communities, offers outdoor recreation and, importantly, creates housing.
“The entire transformation along the riverfront is bringing both market-rate and middle-income housing to the market,” added Oosterman. “We’re really excited about those mixed-income opportunities.”
This includes projects like the Fulton & Market development, which will add nearly 700 market-rate apartments and condominium units to the area, demonstrating how integrating housing solutions with green spaces and public amenities can create a more livable and interconnected city.
Public-Private Collaboration Leading to Investment
Housing Next is working with partners and developers to ensure mixed-income housing is a featured component of the riverfront transformation. By integrating both market-rate and affordable units, priority is being placed on fostering inclusivity and economic growth. Programs like the Grand Rapids Housing Fund support this vision by financing affordable housing for households below 80% of the area median income. These investments ensure that as the city grows, so too does its housing options and their accessibility.
“The entire transformation along the riverfront is bringing both market-rate and middle-income housing to the market,” added Oosterman. “We’re really excited about those mixed-income opportunities.”
An Opportunistic Vision for Growth
With every challenge comes an opportunity for growth, and addressing housing is no different. Oosterman and the team at Housing Next are more positive than ever about the future of the West Michigan, Grand Rapids, and the riverfront. By leveraging public-private relationships and encouraging partners to invest in the community, Housing Next is helping the area stabilize and grow the housing market.
“People want to live here, stay here, and come back here,” concluded Oosterman. “We’re seeing a great opportunity to build communities that residents are proud of, not just in Grand Rapids, but throughout West Michigan.”
To learn more about the developments along the Grand River and housing opportunities underway, visit Grand Riverfront developments.
