Spring Construction Milestones: A Season of Progress Along the Grand Riverfront
Discover spring construction milestones along the Grand Rapids riverfront, from the Acrisure Amphitheater to Canal Park’s transformation and more.
With spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, the Grand Riverfront is coming to life with visible signs of transformation that promise to redefine our downtown experience. From cranes on the move to new foundations taking shape, the GR& Riverfront is evolving. Each season brings a new wave of progress in dynamic developments that are enhancing how we connect along the river.
Here’s a glimpse at five key projects that are building momentum this spring:
Spring construction site of the upcoming Acrisure Amphitheater.
1. Acrisure Amphitheater: Grand Rapids’ Latest Cultural Centerpiece
The future site of the Acrisure Amphitheater is buzzing with energy. This state-of-the-art outdoor venue is rising right along the riverbank, set to host concerts, festivals, and community gatherings that bring the city’s cultural heartbeat to the waterfront.
With construction officially past the halfway mark, the focus this spring sets sight on building out the stage, hillside seating, parking, and supporting facilities. Once completed, the amphitheater will serve as a vibrant hub for music and events, drawing locals and visitors to the water’s edge. Excitingly, seven concerts are already planned for the May-June 2026 opening, with official dates and acts to be announced soon.
2. Amway Stadium: Future Home of Pro Soccer
Just a short walk away, excitement is building around the Amway Stadium, which officially broke ground in April. Work on the site is now in full motion. Once complete, the stadium will serve as the home of both professional soccer matches and community events. As the future hub for Grand Rapids’ own soccer team, the stadium will act intentionally as more than a sports venue – aiming to uncover an assortment of opportunities that represent community pride and economic growth.
Spring construction site of the Grand Rapids Public Museum transformations.
3. Grand Rapids Public Museum: A New Chapter in Storytelling
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is writing its next chapter with a major project that preserves the museum’s rich history while making it more accessible to all. The museum’s carousel continues to be meticulously restored, including fresh paint, carefully preserved animals, and the addition of new accessibility features. Set to reopen in fall 2025, the carousel’s revival will bring renewed charm and nostalgia to the riverfront, welcoming a new generation of riders while honoring its legacy as a cherished community landmark.
Rendering courtesy of City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department & Viridis Design Group.
4. Canal Park: Where Nature Meets Neighborhood
Renovation efforts at Canal Park began in late April, launching a transformation that will blend nature, recreation, and play along the Grand River in the Monroe North neighborhood. Work is underway on a reimagined community space that will include a multi-purpose plaza and an enclosed, rentable pavilion. Additional features showcase a new playground, scenic river outlooks, accessible seating, a paved trail, and a barrier-free kayak launch.
City officials say these improvements will not only offer new ways to play and connect but will also better protect the park and surrounding areas from rising water levels along the Grand River – creating a space that’s both inviting and resilient.
5. 111 Lyon: From Skyline to Sidewalk Living
One of the city’s most historic office buildings is getting a bold new twist. The upper floors of the former Fifth Third Bank Building at 111 Lyon are being transformed from office space into 140 modern residential apartments. Construction broke ground in March, and crews are now in full renovation mode.
Future residents can look forward to a range of amenities, including an indoor pool, pickleball court, a golf simulator, and even a high-performance racing simulator – making this more than just a place to live, but a destination in its own right. The building is on track to welcome its first residents next summer, with stunning skyline and river views at their doorstep.
What’s Next for the Riverfront?
The GR& Riverfront transformation is more than just construction – it’s about creating an inclusive, connected, and vibrant future for everyone. As these projects progress, they bring new opportunities for playing, learning, living, and thriving along the Grand Riverfront.
Stay tuned for summer updates as buildings go vertical, parks come to life, and community visions become reality. Next time you’re downtown, take a stroll along the river – you’ll see progress in motion.
