Amway leaders introduced new name for stadium near YMCA along US-131 in downtown Grand Rapids.
Downtown Grand Rapids new soccer stadium has an official name. Amway Stadium will be the name on the side of the structure on the West Side of Grand Rapids. Dick DeVos with Grand Action 2.0 wanted to emphasis that the project was more than just about downtown Grand Rapids.
"We focus on the downtown, but its not a lack of regard or respect, or desire to impact the entire West Michigan community. Our belief continues to be that when we create a strong core, that energy radiates out and benefits and blesses all sorts of communities outside of the downtown area."
Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss echos those sentiments.
"We all know that its more than just a stadium, more than just a team. It's about building that stronger community, together, a more vibrant community. It's about attracting talent. It's about the jobs that are created not just during the construction but long-term jobs in our community."
Grand Action 2.0 which has been spearheading the plans, estimates 160-thousand visitors to the area because of the stadium. 17 soccer events along with dozens more will take place at the new stadium.
The 85-hundred seat stadium is expected to be partially funded by an eight million dollar hotel tax annually. The state is also providing an over 250 million dollar tax incentive for four projects in the downtown area.
To see the site plans visit GR Soccer Stadium.