Southtown represents a growing opportunity for collaboration, investment and community-led development in Grand Rapids.
Thrive + Prosper is working alongside residents, businesses, nonprofits and civic leaders to help shape a future where economic opportunity expands while the character and ownership of the Southtown neighborhood remain rooted in the community.
Guided by a commitment to development without displacement, partners are aligning around shared priorities that support local leadership, small business growth and long-term neighborhood vitality.
Why Southtown?
240+
Southtown businesses, residents and community stakeholders engaged in three days of workshops and focus groups
84%
of the survey respondents would like to get around Southtown by walking and/or cycling
50%
community residents desire to see more events and activities in all of the business districts
The Southtown vision is simple but ambitious: a thriving neighborhood where residents, entrepreneurs and community organizations work together to build a stronger local economy.
This includes:
- Small businesses growing along active neighborhood corridors
- Residents helping lead initiatives that shape the community’s future
- Strategic investments that strengthen housing, infrastructure and public spaces
- An urban trail system connecting people to green spaces and new opportunities
At the center of this vision is a culture built on relationships, shared ownership and long-term investment in the neighborhood’s future.
Aligning Leaders Around Opportunity
Momentum around Southtown accelerated in 2025 as partners began organizing around shared goals. Nearly 50 community leaders gathered to collaborate across several focus areas including: Arts + Cultural Activations, Small Business Development, Trails + Parks, Investment Strategies, Community Engagement andLocal Government Coordination.
That alignment is laying the groundwork for continued progress, with partners building on shared priorities and working together to move these focus areas forward.
Arts + Cultural Activations
Small
Business Development
Trails +
Parks
Investment Strategies
Community Engagement
Local Government Coordination
Impact
Southtown’s progress is being driven by collaboration among local partners.
40
community members are actively involved in leadership and advisory roles
7
nonprofit organizations are coordinating efforts to move Southtown initiatives forward
31+
Community members involved in leadership + advisory roles
Get Involved.
Southtown is still early in its journey, and you can help shape its future.
Complete the form to learn how you can get involved and connect with others working to strengthen opportunity, investment and community leadership in the neighborhood.
