During Friday morning’s Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority board meeting, a memorandum of understanding with Grand Action 2.0 was approved. The not-for-profit economic development organization has been working with the CAA on the soccer stadium project.
“Which is very similar to what we have in place with the amphitheater.”
Kara Wood is Grand Action 2.0 Executive Director. She confirmed the stadium’s vision is taking shape with a seating capacity of 8,500 with room for expansion.
WGVU asked if an ownership group is in place?
“That is still being worked on, and certainly we can’t have an ownership group until we have a confirmed stadium in place. And so, it’s real important that we advance the stadium design and due diligence to be able to confirm that we would have a place for a team to play.”
Wood tells us a few sites are under consideration including Grand Rapids’ immediate westside along US-131. The David D. Hunting YMCA would become the stadium’s neighbor.
The price tag has yet to be disclosed. The project would be financed through public-private partnerships. Grand Action 2.0 is still working to confirm a lead donor. The timeline for groundbreaking and completion is aggressive.
“We are still hoping for a 2026 season as part of the World Cup in North America.”
Wood explained the soccer stadium is one of 12 transformational projects identified by the city, Kent County and its partners having a high impact for the region.