GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The land where the former Grand Rapids Big Boy used to operate has been donated to the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to be used for community use.
The DDA approved the donation in a meeting on Wednesday. They confirmed to 13 ON YOUR SIDE that 407 Pearl Street NW was donated by Dan and Pamella DeVos.
The property has been eyed for an 8,500-seat soccer stadium proposed by Grand Action 2.0.
"As was previously reported this site and the surrounding area have been prioritized by Grand Action 2.0 for due diligence for a new Downtown soccer stadium. At this time no final decision has been made on the site or on development of the stadium," the DDA wrote in a memorandum.
The plans for the soccer stadium are not finalized, but a vote by the City of Grand Rapids Committee of the Whole and City Commission in December of 2023 did move the project forward.
The stadium's final location is not finalized, but Grand Action 2.0 is considering the former Big Boy's site next to the David D. Hunting YMCA.
Grand Action 2.0 still has several factors to consider before naming a location.
"Grand Action 2.0 has indicated a final decision depends on several factors – including community and stakeholder engagement, completing due diligence, acquiring property and securing lead private and public sector funding," the memo said.
Grand Action 2.0 estimates that the project could infuse over $300 million into the economy upon completion.
In the same meeting, the DDA pledged $20.5 million towards the proposed amphitheater project in Grand Rapids.
You can watch the entire DDA meeting here.
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