It is a common misconception that the goal of this project is to create a whitewater park only for kayakers. Instead, the plan is for a holistic rapid restoration and river revitalization project aimed at returning the spirit of the historic namesake rapids back to the Grand River. Through public input and scientific discovery from sonar, sediment sampling, river bed and hydraulic modeling, important opportunities have presented themselves.
Kayaking, canoeing, rafting and even river surfing will be some of the many new recreational components of the Grand River Restoration project. The project also aims to improve an already great fishery by diversifying habitats, and improving and increasing safe access for anglers and boaters. This project is expected to provide substantial social, economic and environmental benefits for the West Michigan region.