The funding will go towards the second phase of East Grand Rapids’ Waterfront Park Improvement Project. Officials say upgrading the park that runs along Reeds Lake Boulevard has been a priority for years.
Planned improvements include restoration and enhancement of woodlands and wetlands, expansion of the visitor parking lot, construction of trails and boardwalks, development of scenic overlook decks and the creation of an outdoor classroom area.
The second phase is designed to strengthen connections between existing sections of the park completed in phase one and enhance 11 acres of natural recreation space while expanding sustainable and ADA-accessible opportunities for the community.
In a statement, East Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Director Derek Melville said, “With these funds, we can move forward with design work and community input in 2026 as we prepare for construction, which could potentially begin as early as 2027.”
The city was awarded the $500,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Land and Water Conservation Fund.
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