West Michigan economy is best in state
Even with manufacturing losses and little gain in service related industries, West Michigan’s economy fares better on several fronts than the rest of the state and the nation.
Ada
Much has changed since the 1820's when Rix Robinson first established his fur trading post at the confluence of the Grand and Thornapple rivers and laid the foundation for modern day Ada. Or has it? Sure Ada has a booming residential market, big plans to dress up the village center, and the global headquarters of the multi-billion dollar Amway Corporation. But the community's wild and wooded character, and its prime location outside the busy county seat of Grand Rapids, continues to attract entrepreneurs, residents, and visitors. The challenge in the coming decades is to maintain the high quality of life that's stood for nearly 200 years. For more information on Ada visit the Rapid Growth: City Guide
Mayors endorse 15% renewable energy for municipalities by 2015
The Urban Core Mayors see the need for municipalities to transition to renewable energy sources now. By adopting an aggressive plan for that transition, the Mayors established a standard to be followed by individual cities in their efforts to implement energy conservation measures and buy renewable energy for use in municipal operations.
Ada builder finds niche in food processing industry
For nearly 30 years, this West Michigan builder has had a niche market constructing facilities in the regulation-laden food industry. By tackling a variety of challenging projects, the company has positioned itself as national experts in food production processes and systems.
From Hope to Tech Help
They might not be Larry Page and Sergey Brin of Google fame. But Mat Nguyen and Mike Harris are building a respectable tech business of their own.
New AIA map highlights 52 West Michigan buildings
Outstanding architecture is an important facet of the artistic heritage of West Michigan, from traditional whitewashed wooden buildings to modern glass and steel structures. The American Institute of Architects has created a new map highlighting over four dozen architectural wonders on the state’s west coast.
US Mayors unite and go ‘green’
375 mayors from across the US gathered to discuss and learn about environmental issues and the positive effects of building ‘green’ with recycled materials and energy efficient systems. Grand Rapids ranked among the cities high on the list for producing eco-friendly products.
A Philadelphia Story
The once empty streets of Philly's Central City District now bustle with new workers, residents, and sidewalk cafes. Phil Levy credits the establishment of a special business improvement district, an idea GR now is looking to expand.
Foreign Force
Nearly 21,000 people, a full 10 percent of Grand Rapids' population, were born outside the United States. Meet a few of them who are changing the city's culture and economy for the better.
Sports commission board named for Kent County
Eleven of the proposed forty members were named to the Kent County Sports Commission from a pool of over 100 interested volunteers. Additionally, financial support of $270K for the first year has been pledged to the organization.
