Heads up, Grand Rapids! If you frequent the Wealthy Street area, you'll want to pay close attention: a significant road closure is coming your way. This closure is set to impact your commute and potentially your plans for the next week.
Starting November 5th at 7 a.m., a portion of Eastern Avenue SE, specifically between Cherry Street and Wealthy Street, will be off-limits to traffic. The closure is scheduled to last until November 10th at 8 a.m.
What's the reason for this disruption? City workers will be hard at work, repairing damaged concrete around manholes. This is essential maintenance to ensure the longevity and safety of our roadways.
For those navigating the area, here's the detour information:
- Northbound drivers: Follow the detour from Cherry Street to Diamond Avenue to Wealthy Street.
- Southbound drivers: Take Wealthy Street to Diamond Avenue to Cherry Street.
But here's where it gets interesting... This is just the beginning. As part of a larger revitalization project, more sections of the Wealthy Street corridor are slated for closure between 2026 and 2028. This long-term plan aims to improve the area, but it's not without its critics.
Plans to eliminate parking spaces in the Eastown neighborhood have already sparked outrage from some business owners. This raises a crucial question: How do we balance necessary improvements with the needs of local businesses and residents? What are your thoughts on this project? Share your opinions in the comments below!