César E. Chávez Avenue reopens following $7.5 million reconstruction

César E. Chávez Avenue reopens following $7.5 million reconstruction

Published on October 10, 2024

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - City, neighborhood, and business leaders gathered this morning to commemorate the long-awaited reopening of César E. Chávez Avenue SW. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the completion of a major seven-month reconstruction project and signaled the official road opening of César E. Chávez Avenue SW, between Clyde Park Avenue and Hall Street. Additional finish work along this stretch will continue over the next two weeks which may prompt occasional lane closures and/or shifts. Since March 4, the avenue had been closed to through traffic, causing inconvenience to residents and businesses alike.

Designed and reconstructed in accordance with Grand Rapids Vital Streets principles, the half-mile stretch of César E. Chávez Avenue between Clyde Park Avenue and Hall Street underwent a comprehensive road reconstruction. The project included the installation of new water mains, a storm sewer system, new sidewalks, and the replacement of lead water pipes at 29 private properties. Additionally, new driveway approaches, on-street parking, curb extensions at intersections, and new fiber glass streetlights were added to enhance safety and accessibility. The project also incorporated five rain gardens and the planting of 80 street trees, contributing to the beautification of the area. DTE Energy and AT&T also made significant upgrades and replacements to its facilities in conjunction with the street reconstruction project. The project benefitted from $700,000 in Congressionally-directed spending requested by Senator Gary Peters and contained in the FY 2022 federal budget.

The reopening of César E. Chávez Avenue SW brings relief to the community, as it restores a vital Latino business district and transportation artery and improves the overall quality of the neighborhood. Local businesses along the corridor celebrated Thursday and invited the public to Experience Roosevelt Park Neighborhood with specials and discounts on Thursday. Participating businesses included 911 Cash, Bravo Café, Dylans Boots, John & Sons Auto Sales, M&M Bakery and Banquet, Rincon Criollo Restaurant, Rodriguez Supermarket, Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Association, Sanchez Income Tax/Translation Services, Samaria J's Salon, Sunrise Nutrition, Tsitsiki Ice Cream & Snack, TC Com, and Yuriria Tire Shop.

The project's completion is a testament to the collaborative efforts of city officials, community leaders, and local businesses, who worked tirelessly to ensure the successful reconstruction of the avenue.

City Manager Mark Washington expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "The redevelopment of César E. Chávez Avenue is a significant milestone for our city. This project not only enhances the safety and functionality of the road but also demonstrates our commitment to creating vibrant and sustainable neighborhoods and business districts. I want to express my appreciation to everyone for their patience during the project. I also thank all those involved for their hard work and dedication in making this project a reality."

The revitalized César E. Chávez Avenue SW will not only benefit residents and businesses directly along the avenue but also contribute to the overall economic growth and development of the surrounding area. The improved infrastructure will facilitate smoother traffic flow, encourage pedestrian activity, and attract potential investors and visitors to the neighborhood.

City officials urge motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution and familiarize themselves with the new features and changes along César E. Chávez Avenue SW. The reopening of this important thoroughfare is a cause for celebration and marks a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to enhance the city's infrastructure and improve the quality of life for its residents.

Tagged as:

• Media Releases