A Makeover for Calder Plaza

When I was in grade school at Sibley Elementary back in the 70s, I remember taking a field trip to see the artwork known as “La Grande Vitesse”, designed by sculptor Alexander Calder. This metal sculpture sits on Calder Plaza in downtown Grand Rapids.

I remember being impressed by the bright colors of the art piece and also of the nearby painted roof of the Kent County Administrative building. That roof was also designed by Calder.

But even as a kid, I was disappointed by the plaza itself. It just seemed very much like an empty parking lot. That was 40 years ago — and nothing has changed in all that time.

Well it looks like changes are in the plaza’s future, and YOU could be part of the new design!

Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. is in the process of getting public feedback on just how Calder Plaza should be used. This 160,000 square foot space has been used for many festivals and gatherings over the years. These events only account for about 40 days use out of each year. The rest of the time the Plaza just sits there.

How should the “new” plaza be used and configured? What would you like to see in that area? DGRI is asking for YOUR help with ideas for the redesign.

They held their first meeting on Tuesday evening, June 28th. If you didn’t make the meeting, but would like to submit ideas for the redesign, DGRI will also have information for submitting ideas on their Twitter, Facebook, and Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc. website. You can submit ideas through the month of July.

Some features that need to be considered for the new plaza:

• Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act
• Improving access to the plaza from Monroe Avenue
• Increasing on-street parking;
• Turning Ottawa Avenue into a two-way street
• Decreasing sun exposure.

All of the options will be evaluated in August. Come September, the new vision for the redesigned Calder Plaza will be unveiled.

What ideas do you have?