District leaders closed 10 schools in 2023 as part of the "ReImagine GRPS with Us" long-term plan that includes addressing vacant or underused facilities.
The first two schools up for consideration are the former Alexander Elementary and the former Stocking Elementary, one on each side of the city.
“We're looking for new uses for these former school buildings that are going to add value to our community and that could be a range of things.”
Luke Stier is GRPS Director of Communications.
“We know that more housing is needed in our community so that's certainly one possibility. There was also a desire to make sure that we continued to have green space that we have on some of these sites. There could also be options for leasing for a community center of some sort.”
The first step in the process is community input with two meetings in January for residents and stakeholders to offer feedback.
The official request for proposals will be distributed in late January with site tours in February and proposals due in April.
“For both Alexander and Stocking, our hope is that by the spring we will have that path forward for both of these locations.”
The anticipated timeline calls for the properties to be under contract by May first.
Meeting to discuss Alexander Elementary
Wednesday, January 14
Noon - 1:30 pm & 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Rev. Lyman S. Parks Administration Building
1331 MLK Jr. St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Meeting to discuss Stocking Elementary
Thursday, January 15
Noon - 1:30 pm & 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Stocking Elementary Gymnasium
863 7th St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
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