Reviving a Vision: Gaslight Village's Mixed-Use Development
After two decades of planning and multiple setbacks, developers Scott Wierda and Brian DeVries of Gaslight Investors LLC are reviving their ambitious mixed-use development plan for East Grand Rapids' Gaslight Village. The new proposal, which will go before the East Grand Rapids Planning Commission on June 11, aims to transform an 8.6-acre site between Wealthy Street and Lakeside Drive SE into a bustling community hub. The plan includes 180 housing units, 56,970 square feet of commercial space, and a new parking garage, marking the city's largest housing development in decades.
The path to this point has been fraught with challenges. Initial plans approved in 2004 led to the construction of only two commercial buildings before the financial crisis and Great Recession halted further progress. In 2020, another attempt to revive the project was thwarted by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these setbacks, Wierda and DeVries have remained committed to their vision. Wierda expressed in a statement, "This district has become a community gathering place, enhancing the charm of Gaslight Village and helping make this a truly wonderful place to shop, dine, work, and visit."
A significant focus of the new plan is enhancing walkability and pedestrian connectivity in Gaslight Village. The development will include a redesigned internal road connecting Wealthy Street to Lakeside, new sidewalks, site lighting, landscaping, and art installations to create an inviting pedestrian experience. The existing parking garage will be replaced, and new mixed-use buildings will incorporate commercial, residential, and parking spaces. This redesign aims to seamlessly integrate the new development with the rest of Gaslight Village, fostering a more cohesive and walkable community.
Affordable housing is another crucial element of the project, with plans to reserve 10% of the units for residents earning 100% to 120% of the area median income. This commitment to affordability addresses a significant need in the community, ensuring that a diverse range of residents can benefit from the new development. As Wierda noted, the project represents a homecoming and a chance to "expand on the tremendous momentum happening in greater Grand Rapids," ultimately enhancing the livability and appeal of Gaslight Village for all its residents.
Summary of the Media Release on Gaslight Village Development
June 7, 2024
Contact: Amy LeFebre, 616-450-4292, alefebre@truscottrossman.com
Overview:
Gaslight Investors LLC has proposed a mixed-use development project for Gaslight Village in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The project aims to enhance the community with new residential, retail, and commercial properties, improving walkability and connectivity to the Reeds Lake Trail.
Details of the Proposed Plan:
Development Sites: 2255 Wealthy and 515 Lakeside.
Key Features:
Construction of five new multi-story buildings along an internal road connecting Wealthy Street to Lakeside.
Mixed-use buildings with both commercial and residential spaces.
A dedicated commercial and professional use building.
14 new three-story townhomes with private garages.
Installation of new snow-melted sidewalks, site lighting, landscaping, and art.
Replacement of the existing parking deck with a new one and additional onsite street parking.
New Additions:
Approximately 55,000 square feet of commercial space.
166 new residential rental units.
14 townhomes.
Background and Vision:
The developers, who previously succeeded in revitalizing a section of Gaslight Village and Breton Village, aim to build on their success by expanding the village's amenities and enhancing its community appeal.
The project is in line with the East Grand Rapids Master Plan, focusing on market demand and community needs.
Next Steps:
The East Grand Rapids Planning Commission will conduct a preliminary review of the site plan amendment on June 11, with further reviews and discussions expected in the coming months.
