Preservation sets a foundation that goes much deeper than simply fixing up old buildings, says Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Specialist Rhonda Baker, explaining that it stabilizes neighborhoods, increases property values, and creates a sense of place.
“It's those past elements that you find draw people in. It gives the character that is attractive to people. It's attractive to companies, so it's very much an economic boost to the city. Identity is very important and people recognize right away when a city has lost its identity.”
The Commission presented awards recognizing exemplary efforts in restoring, rehabilitating and elevating historic local resources at residential, commercial and neighborhood sites.
The 2026 winners include the Pinnacle–Clipper Belt Lacer Complex on Front Avenue, Silva on Ottawa, a home at 233 College, the Kendall Dean House on Leonard and the Auburn Hills Neighborhood.
“It was a wonderful award where you could see just a wide range of how preservation and history can affect the community in a positive way.”
Grand Rapids has six historic districts encompassing roughly 2,500 properties.
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