Calder Plaza Reimagined – Three Proposals Presented To Residents [Video]

Calder Plaza is one of Grand Rapids' most recognizable landmarks and many residents believe it is need of an update.  A few weeks ago a meeting was held with landscape architect Mike Albert of Design Workshop presenting a variety of options and choices for a Calder Plaza redesign.

According to DowntownGR.org "This initiative is led by a 21-person citizen steering committee in partnership with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc, Kent County and the City of Grand Rapids."

The presentation featured three distinct visions for the plaza, each featuring different additions to Calder Plaza.  Here are each of the proposed redesigns with some of their features:

Modernist Lines

• Outdoor Garden Rooms
• Interactive Water Feature
• Food Truck Plaza
• Lawn Games
• Shade Pavilion
• Biergarten

Sculptural Grove

• Retail Shops
• Shade Pavilion
• Flexible Seating & Tree Grove
• Gardens
• Interactive Water Feature
• Grand Pavilion & Stage
• Food Truck Plaza

Urban Living Room

• Retail Shops
• Restaurant Dining
• Shaded Tree Grove
• Urban Playground
• Food Truck Plaza
• Interactive Water Feature

Be sure to check out the look of each of the designs and give the city your feedback!  A 20 question survey is online for anyone in the area to weigh in on the things they like and don't like about each design.  Personally I like the "Modernist Lines" design, but that probably has something to do with the proposed Biergarten! - Steve