Return of the River Jeff Hill
As the namesake of our city, the Grand River has been at the heart of Grand Rapids since it was founded in the early 1800s. While the river has always had a large presence downtown, the rapids have been missing in action since the river was dammed, walled in, and brought under "control" to help with the city's industrial development in the early 20th Century.
Now, with help from a group called Grand Rapids Whitewater, the Downtown Development Authority, Founders Brewing Company, the State of Michigan, and many other stakeholders, the rapids are making a grand re-entrance into the city. And the plans are bold and exciting.
Rapid Growth continues its monthly speaker series, partnering with Grand Rapids Young Professionals (GRYP) on the topic of “bringing back the rapids." January’s event will focus on how the rapids will positively impact our city’s economy, wildlife habitat, and opportunities for recreation.
Grand Rapids Whitewater representatives, Mayor George Heartwell and Founders Brewing Company will give an overview of where the project sits today, what is planned for the stretch of river from Ann St. all the way to Fulton St. (including several parks and whitewater rafting scale rapids), and how you can help make it happen.
Whether you’ve lived in Grand Rapids your entire life or have moved here recently, you’ll hear about the history and exciting things to come for the river that gives the city its name.
Event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 5:10 p.m. Beverages available.
This "Not Your Average Speaker Series" is in partnership with Grand Rapids Young Professionals and sponsored by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA).
Please RSVP as space is limited, or you can RSVP and invite others on our Facebook Event Page.
Thursday January 24th, 5:30 - 7:00
Grand Rapids Public Museum - 3rd Floor Overlook Room
Admission: Free
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