“As the lead donor for the new soccer stadium, I am very pleased to announce that Amway has pledged a gift of $33 million for the stadium’s development.”
Carol Van Andel announced “Amway Stadium” as the name of the 8,500-seat outdoor venue set to break ground next year. She spoke as a member of Amway’s founding families and of Grand Action 2.0, one of the public-private partners involved in the project, along with Dick Devos who emphasized the project has regional benefits.
“Our belief continues to be that when we create a strong core, that energy radiates out and benefits and blesses all sorts of communities outside the downtown area.”
The Amway Stadium on Winter Avenue west of downtown is designed as a multi-purpose venue, that will be the home of professional soccer in West Michigan, and support youth, high school and collegiate clubs.
It’s expected to draw 17 national and international professional competitions, more than 50 community-based tournaments and events, and 160,000 visitors to downtown Grand Rapids each season.
Mayor Rosalynn Bliss says the project is in line with the Downtown Master Plan, and the Bridge South Plan, and will anchor development of the west side neighborhood, increasing foot traffic, and serving as a catalyst for more housing, commercial, retail and hospitality space.
“It’s about building that stronger community together, a more vibrant community. It’s about attracting talent. It’s about the jobs that are created not just during construction but long-term.”
Over two years of construction and 30 years of operation, the stadium is expected to create 330 new jobs and generate $408 million in new economic impact for the area.
Grand Action 2.0 has also secured the necessary approvals for public dollars to complete the project.
