Detroit Free Press touts Grand Rapids’ Medical Mile as a catalyst of transformation

A report from the Detroit Free Press recognizes the development of Grand Rapids’ Medical Mile as a catalyst for the transformation of the city into a medical Mecca.According to excerpts from the story:The city once renowned for furniture construction has transformed itself into one dedicated to building healthier lives, showing how a thoughtful revitalization plan can be achieved over time. Fifteen years ago, community leaders in Michigan’s second-largest city embarked on a grand vision to build up its medical community. Today, after $1 billion in public and private investment, there are 14,500 jobs and a thriving medical community that has helped prevent an aging manufacturing base from backsliding, according to local development and industry experts. The stretch along downtown’s Michigan Street — officially called Medical Mile, but nicknamed Pill Hill — continues to expand, boasting an ever-growing array of hospitals, laboratories, bio-med companies and related schools. Read the complete story here.