Following a short period of population decline, the City of Grand Rapids, Michigan, has experienced renewed growth in recent years. The City occupies a large portion of a county that is projected to grow 27% by 2045.
In light of this, Grand Rapids has engaged Planning NEXT to lead a best-in-class team of subconsultants including Sidewalk Detroit, Ninigret Partners, Interface Studio, Sam Schwartz, CNT, and Güd Marketing to develop a new comprehensive master plan for the City. The last plan was completed over 20 years ago and while it has served the City well, it is time to build on that success to develop a plan that addresses current needs and priorities.
The City is increasingly diverse, young, and educated, presenting unique opportunities for the future. Housing continues to be a major focus for the city and new guidelines related to housing will be developed as a part of this planning process. Importantly, therefore, the 24-month process, branded as Building Our Future, will take a more intentional look at equity and how the city can develop in a way that helps lift up all residents. Besides managing the overall effort, Planning NEXT will focus on developing the land use strategy as well as leading the overall engagement strategy in partnership with Sidewalk Detroit.
A representative Steering Committee has been established which will play a critical role in guiding the process and be central to the outreach to and engagement of the larger community.
Planning NEXT is excited to lead this important effort for the City of Grand Rapids.
