GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. is allocating part of a $55 million state grant for park and trail improvements along the Grand River.

The money, which comes from federal COVID relief funds, must be allocated by 2024 and spent by the end of 2026.

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Officials want to remove four concrete dams along the river and replace them with natural rocks and boulders to form waves, pools and shallower faster moving sections.

The goal is to active the riverfront with more recreation opportunities and spur the development of new housing and businesses in the area.