Intersection near Heartside Gateway in Grand Rapids brightens with new pocket park

The $1.4 million rebuilding of an intersection in one of Grand Rapids’ most blighted downtown areas has resulted in a little new pocket park, another indication the area is stirring with a new life. 
 Located on the northwest corner of Cherry Street and S. Division, the park opened last month after construction crews neared completion in the brick-paved street. 

According to excerpts from the story:

The project continues the almost miraculous transformation of the South Division Avenue corridor in recent years, driven by small retailers, non-profit housing company Dwelling Place and private developers.

There’s still plenty of work to be done. Several blocks are pockmarked with empty or virtually empty buildings that look like they’re about to fall down. Even some of those where extensive rehab work has been done have had a hard time landing new tenants.

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