Not Your Average Speaker Series: Rapidly Growing

Kent and Ottawa Counties are two of the fastest growing counties in Michigan. Due to the increased number of commuters traveling into Kent County daily, the Grand Rapids - Wyoming Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) has been bumped up to over 1 Million residents. The area continues to be a destination for company expansions and job transferees, and it's growing reputation as a Great Place to Raise a Family means households continue to grow.

But is there a downside to this growth, particularly if demand continues on the outer fringes of the metro area? On infrastructure? On transportation needs and traffic? On scarce resources? How can urban areas compete and make themselves viable in the 21st Century, particularly older middle-class neighborhoods and older suburban areas?

How does West Michigan grow and continue to provide the quality of life that people seek?

Join us on April 25 at The Rapid's Central Station as we explore these issues with regional growth experts from every corner of the State.

Panelists include:

Kevin Wisselink - The Rapid and United Growth For Kent County
Kim Pontius - The Grand Vision (Grand Traverse Region)
Jim Bruckbauer - Michigan Land Use Institute
Hayley Roberts - Michigan Suburbs Alliance

This event is free and open to the public. Beverages will be served. Parking is not available on site, but there is on-street parking. The Rapid service is also available, and there are bike facilities nearby.

This "Not Your Average Speaker Series" is produced by Rapid Growth Media and sponsored by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) and The Rapid.

Please RSVP here or at our Facebook Event Page.