Between renovation projects along the riverfront and new construction on Health Hill, investment in and around the Belknap-Monroe North neighborhood now is approaching $1.1 billion. It's a concentrated development boom unlike any in Grand Rapids' history. Also view Rapid Growth's guides to visiting and moving to Belknap-Monroe North.
Grand Rapids is not hesitating to plug into the global economy. But the city also is making a concerted effort to nurture local businesses in an effort to promote greater prosperity, enviromental stewardship, and social justice. Local First, the group leading the movement, recently held their third annual fundraiser.
The Grand Rapids dog park is more than just a palce "where the elite with four feet meet," to paraphrase San Francisco cartoonist Phil Frank. It also serves as a community yard for people to unwind and connect with new friends.
While parks and recreation areas fill a need for city folk seeking green spaces, a sense of ownership or belonging is often missing. At the Hillcrest Community Garden, people come together on common ground to prepare the land in the spring, swap growing tips and techniques throughout the season, and clean up in the fall.
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