Going to Downtown Grand Rapids Is Tough Due to Road Construction
If you are coming into downtown Grand Rapids to enjoy a show or hockey game at the Van Andel Arena, check out a new restaurant, or just coming into downtown for work -- your journey has become a little more difficult.
There are some great shows coming up at the Van Andel Arena -- including Elton John, Jack White, Kid Rock, Megadeth, Journey, Brooks & Dunn, and Sting -- but if you are coming into downtown from the west side of Grand Rapids, you need to be aware of some road construction what may leave a lot of people confused as to where to go, and how to get there.
Last week the City of Grand Rapids started road construction of the intersection of Fulton and Monroe (right by the B.O.B.). The work will replace the pavement and also install a water main and replace a major sewer line.
What Roads are closed?
Fulton Street is closed from the Grand River to Ottawa Avenue. Monroe Avenue is closed from Campau to Oakes Street.
If you are driving into downtown from the west side, you will not be able to take Fulton Street beyond US-131. Getting to the parking ramp across from the Van Andel will required taking a detour into the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.
The posted detour will take you north on Seward Avenue to Pearl Street. East on Pearl Street to Ottawa Avenue. Turn south on Ottawa Avenue to get to the entrance of the parking ramp.
Getting out of the parking ramp after the shows also requires some planning. If you want to head west -- you will want to take the exit on the Ionia Avenue side of the ramp. Then head north on Ionia Avenue to Pearl Street and west on Pearl. Traffic exiting from the Ottawa Avenue side of the ramp will only be able to turn east on Fulton Street.
How Long will the Roads be Closed?
This nearly $20 million dollar project is scheduled to run through the summer, with a completion date in August.
Additional road closure information can be found on the City of Grand Rapids website.