O-A-K partnered with the City of Grand Rapids and VIRIDIS Design Group to transform Canal Park into an accessible community gathering space on the banks of the Grand River.

Before the renovation, the site had little green space and parking along the street. The city worked with the Anishinaabek to reimagine the park as a place that reconnects people with the river.

The new park centers on a universally accessible play space, a multi-purpose plaza, and a heated, enclosed pavilion for year-round events. River overlooks, seating terraces, wide 14-foot sidewalks, and an accessible kayak launch bring visitors right to the water’s edge.

The design also strengthens flood protection along the Grand River. Canal Park is one of six projects reshaping the riverfront as part of the Grand River Greenway, and O-A-K is proud to be building three of them.

Project Scope:

• Universally accessible playground
• Multi-purpose event plaza
• Heated, enclosed pavilion
• River overlooks and seating terraces
• Accessible kayak launch
• 14-foot-wide sidewalks, paved trail, stairs, seat walls, and retaining walls
• Flood protection improvements
• Site paving, landscaping, and lighting [confirm landscaping and lighting]

O-A-K led the project, working closely with VIRIDIS Design Group, City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation, and project partners including Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians, The Right Place, and the Monroe North Business Association. Project Manager Dave Fleece and Superintendent Michael Schneidt led the O-A-K team on site. The park opened to the public in October 2026, with an official grand opening planned for spring 2027.

Photo credit Bryan Esler.