The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is a funding tool that Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) administers to help catalyze public and private investment in Grand Rapids’ urban core.
To maintain a high level of openness and transparency, the full recording of the live-streamed DDA Board meeting on June 11, 2025, is available on YouTube.
The Board met on this agenda and took the following actions:
Gillett Bridge Enhancements
The Board approved funding for enhancements on the Gillett Bridge. As part of the larger project to repave and refurbish the Gillett Bridge, improvements will be made to the electrical infrastructure that will support events, art installations and other activities on the bridge.
The Board approved funds not to exceed $35,000 for electrical enhancements to the Gillett Bridge.
Projection Infrastructure at Lyon Square
The Board approved funding to support the installation of projection equipment at Lyon Square. Upon completion of the Lyon Square renovation project, DGRI will install a video projection system. This investment will allow for projection shows on the Civic Auditorium entrance to DeVos Place, similar to the “Seasonal Wonders” show featured in the 2021 World of Winter festival.
The Board approved funds not to exceed $512,000 for the contracts supporting the purchase and installation of projection equipment at Lyon Square.
Grand River Greenway Expansion
The Board approved funding to support the construction of the first phase of the "Grand River East Riverfront" project adjacent to the Acrisure Amphitheater. Work with multiple partners will add 4.5 acres of new publicly accessible greenspace and a critical half-mile connection of riverfront trail. This investment will fund placemaking enhancements including catenary lighting, decorative paving and swing benches.
The Board approved funds not to exceed $905,249 in support of the Grand River East Riverfront Phase 1 project.
Downtown Ambassador Program Support
The Board approved funding to support the continued work and operations of the Downtown Ambassador Team. In late 2024, DGRI issued a Request For Proposals (RFP) to provide Beautification, Maintenance and Placemaking services. Block By Block was the firm selected to provide these services. The total annual contract is for $1,337,193.05. The Downtown Improvement District (DID) will provide the majority of the funding for the program with the DDA's portion accounting for approximately 1/3 of the total cost.
The Board approved funds not to exceed $400,000 for Hospitality, Beautification, Maintenance and Placemaking contractual services in FY 2026.
Downtown Flower Planting Expansion
The Board approved funding to support Downtown beautification efforts via the management and maintenance of over 200 planter beds and pots throughout Downtown. This effort includes the addition of 8 new pots this year, as well as the introduction of four season plantings on Ionia Avenue to match Monroe Center and Ottawa Avenue. The total annual contract is for $203,150. The Downtown Improvement District (DID) will provide the majority of the funding for the program with the DDA's portion accounting for just over 1/4 of the total cost. The Monroe North Tax Increment Finance Authority will contribute $7,000.
The Board approved funding not to exceed $58,150 for Flower Planting and Beautification contractual services in FY 2026.
Calder Plaza Enhancements
The Board approved funding to support pre-construction services for the Calder Plaza Enhancement project. The project continues to move forward in alignment with the City of Grand Rapids' Government Center parking deck replacement project scheduled to begin in early 2026. Funds from the DDA will be used to design and implement plaza enhancements and account for approximately 1/3 of the total project cost.
The Board approved funding not to exceed $589,627.50 for the DDA share of preconstruction services for the Calder Plaza Deck and Enhancement Project.
