Backers say Grand Rapids streetcar could bring $400M in development

A recent feasibility study of the proposed streetcar system for downtown Grand Rapids says the streetcar could spur $400 million in development by way of restaurants, stores and more—which means more jobs for the region. The challenge is finding the initial $79 million to construct the first phase.

According to excerpts from the story:

GRAND RAPIDS -- The vision is this: Sleek, electric streetcars running up and down Monroe Avenue NW, stopping every 10 minutes at canopy-covered stations.

It also includes a new wave of downtown development: nearly $400 million in restaurants, shops, offices, condos and apartments within blocks of the tracks.

The question, however, is who would pay for it.

Read the complete story here.

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