Grand Rapids Park to Get Major Upgrades Including Play Space, Pavilion, Accessible Kayak Launch

Another Grand Rapids park is getting a huge makeover!

Recently we told you that Martin Luther King Jr. Park would be getting millions of dollars in renovations - the next park to get a facelift is Canal Park.

Canal Park is located downtown Grand Rapids at 905 Monroe Ave NW.

The City of Grand Rapids says it will be "transformed into a vibrant community hub that prioritizes accessibility, community gathering, flood protection, ecological health and connection to the Grand River (or Owashtanong), and cultural/historical interpretation."

The City of Grand Rapids recently shared final concepts for improvements at Canal Park.

The project will include:

• A new "River Story" universally accessible play space with rubber, poured-in-place surfacing, play towers and bridges, stone steppers, play sculptures, and an Owashtanong river story interpretive art paving inlay

• A new multi-purpose plaza with rentable enclosed pavilion for events

• River overlooks and seating terraces
• River landing with an accessible kayak launch platform

A few year back Riverside Park got a new accessible EZ Dock kayak launch.

Using our innovative floating dock design, we’ve engineered a flexible, easy-to-use launch that makes getting into your kayak or canoe quick and simple. No matter if you’re a beginner or a seasoned veteran who needs a little extra assistance, the EZ Launch allows people of all skill levels to enter and exit with ease. Best of all, you can extend your season into the cooler months without worrying about wet feet!

Concepts at Canal Park are by VIDRIS Design Group.

According to the City of Grand Rapids, construction at Canal Park is set to begin within the next two years.