Black Wallstreet Grand Rapids (BWSGR) has been working since 2020 on the long-term mission to grow a thriving Black business district on the city’s southeast side, combating gentrification and building generational wealth and opportunity.
Founder and President, Preston Sain said his team is now one step closer, as the group shared renderings of a $15 million project for its flagship business district.
Planted on Eastern Avenue and Burton Street, the district building holds 35,000 square feet. BWSGR plans to build upwards, joining the development trend of mixed- use building and living spaces by offering 11,000 square feet of commercial area and 34 apartment units.
Possible amenities for the space include coffee shop, brewery, hair store, beauty salon, ice cream shop, shopping boutiques, small restaurants, fitness studio, flower shop, book store and event center.
“This change is primed to possess Black ownership & equity, culture and an undeniable asset to our local residents and tourists community with an intentional Flagship Black Business District," Sain said in a statement.
Inspired by the original Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, this leading property is one out of eight total districts Sain hopes to build over the next 16 years, with a $100 million capital campaign. BWSGR has also submitted a proposal seeking $6 million from Kent County's ARPA Funds, which were allocated by the Federal Government.
Sain expects to begin construction by early spring of 2023, with a goal of completion by late fall 2023.
