EGLE Approves Grand River Rapids Restoration

Grand Rapids received its name from the whitewater rapids on the Grand River, which were removed in the late 1800s and early 1900s.  Efforts to restore the rapids have been underway for the past 15 years.  A 2023 plan was rejected, requiring organizers to modify the design.  The new plan would restore the rapids from 300 ft upstream of Bridge St to Fulton St, remove four dams, and install natural rocks and boulders.  EGLE approved the plan and issued a permit, which will allow the project to move forward pending approval from federal regulators at the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

Most of the $18 million in funding needed for the project has already been secured.  Once the project receives approval from NRCS, construction can begin in July, with the restoration expected to be completed in 2026.

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