GR Forward

GR Forward is a community plan and investment strategy. We're envisioning the City's future with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) and Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS). This three plan effort envisions the future of:
  • Downtown Grand Rapids
  • The Grand River
  • Grand Rapids Public Schools
GR Forward launched in April 2014. The goal was to create a community-driven plan fueled by public outreach. 4,400 Grand Rapidians were involved in the GR Forward process through more than 360 events.

We harnessed this collaborative spirit through the public review process. We released the draft plan on July 2, 2015. Then we set out with over 50 events and presentations with key stakeholders get get feedback.

The Planning Commission reviewed the draft document on July 23, 2015. They voted in support of forwarding the plan to the City Commission.  City Commission accepted the plan for review on August 11, 2015. It was then distributed for public comment. We got more than 750 comments and updated the plan.

City Commission adopted the final plan on December 15, 2015.

Check out our plans! Download the final draft documents below.

Executive Summary(PDF, 5MB)

Introduction(PDF, 3MB)

Vision(PDF, 1MB)

Towards an Equity-Driven Growth Model in Downtown Grand Rapids(PDF, 205KB)

Restore the River as the Draw & Create a Connected & Equitable River Corridor(PDF, 5MB)

Create a True Downtown Neighborhood Home to a Diverse Population(PDF, 7MB)

Implement a 21st century Mobility Strategy(PDF, 6MB)

Expand Job Opportunities & Ensure Continued Vitality of the Local Economy(PDF, 2MB)

Reinvest in Public Space, Culture & Inclusive Programming(PDF, 3MB)

Retain & Attract Families, Talent & Job Providers with High Quality Public Schools(PDF, 3MB)

Appendix 1: River Corridor Plan Supplemental Materials(PDF, 26MB)

Appendix 2: Downtown Plan Supplemental Analysis(PDF, 17MB)

Appendix 3: Downtown Grand Rapids Residential Market Potential(PDF, 4MB)

Appendix 4: Parking and Mobility Study(PDF, 4MB)

In July, 2015, the Grand River Restoration Steering Committee released it's final report. The below report summarizes the committee’s charge, accomplishments and recommended actions for the river.

River Restoration Committee Report

Contact Us

Phone

616-456-4100


Email

planning@grcity.us


Location

City of Grand Rapids Planning Department

1120 Monroe Ave NW 3rd Floor

Grand Rapids

49503

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