One year after its arrival in town, Grand Rapids drivers and riders have largely embraced Uber. In the last of a three-part series on the sharing economy, writer Lauren Carlson wades through the rate changes, tipping controversy, and demographic shifts in ridership to hear from the drivers themselves about what it's like to provide the service here.
It's here, it's on the rise, and even Hillary has an opinion on it. It's the sharing economy, and it's changing the way people commute to work, stay in new cities, and grab a ride home from the bar. Wonder about the state of the sharing economy in West Michigan? Read on this week for a look at how Airbnb is faring in Grand Rapids in the second of a three-part Rapid Growth series.
Want to kayak or canoe, birdwatch or bike, fish or finish a 5K? Along the Thornapple River in Middleville, one special trail offers all these activities and more. Don't let the summer slip by without a visit -- and before you go, read up on the Paul Henry Trail, a West Michigan gem.
It's here, it's on the rise, and even Hillary has an opinion on it. It's the sharing economy, and it's changing the way people commute to work, stay in new cities, and grab a ride home from the bar. Wonder about the state of the sharing economy in West Michigan? Read on for a look at new bike-share programs coming to town in the first of a three-part Rapid Growth series.
Dust off your spokes, oil your chains, and get rolling: It's summer on the trails, and Rapid Growth shares a few of the best spots for cycling both in and out of the city. Whether you're looking for a casual summer ride or an epic summer event, read on for some of our favorite rides.
Over the past few months, Rapid Growth has explored some of West Michigan's trails and the people behind them. One organization, the West Michigan Trails and Greenways Coalition (WMTGC), plays a vital role, assisting towns and cities in creating, connecting or renovating their unique trails. Planning to enjoy a trail this weekend? Find out who made your favorite stretch possible.
It's finally spring, and that means the Grand Rapids Fifth Third River Bank Run, the largest 25K in the country, will attract participants and spectators from across the globe. But those native to West Michigan have a particular advantage during the training process: a network of smooth, paved trails that stretch for miles. Prepping for another crack at the famous 25K, three dedicated local runners describe their love for the sport and the opportunity to train on trails that provide varying course lengths, scenic views and diverse topography.
Trails make connections between small towns and cities, farmers' markets and breweries, state parks and campgrounds. Forged in dormant rail corridors, the majority of Michigan's recreational trails follow the paths spearheaded by their forefathers. But what happens when a corridor sits empty? How can an unused path become a final, polished trail? The Friends of the Interurban Trail are trying to complete a connection for a 40-mile stretch between Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. Read on to see how their project has evolved.
We hear about the boys, the beards, and the brawlers, but what about the broads? As Grand Rapids continues to grow its craft beer culture, more women are becoming involved in the industry and taking on creative and leadership positions right beside their male counterparts. On the heels of last weekend's 10th Annual Winter Beer Festival and in advance of this weekend's Women of Craft Beer event at the Downtown Market, Lauren Carlson gets to know some of the women behind the beverages.
In the coming months, all segments of the White Pine Trail will be completed and connected. What impact does the beloved trail have on the economic development and health of West Michigan? Lauren F. Carlson explores the history and the future of this beloved trail in Rapid Growth's Moments on the Trails series.
Our Partners
Solutions journalism takes time, trust, and your support.
