Grand Haven chooses CopperRock to develop Chinook Pier, plans inching forward

Public input has been at the center of the redevelopment of Grant Haven’s Chinook Pier.

After CopperRock Construction’s first presentation, the development team made several modifications to their proposal to better address the public input. Mini-golf, a local favorite, has been added back into the design; the Waterfront Center market building was adjusted to better serve the farmers market vendors; and green infrastructure was added (solar and electric vehicle parking).

Late last year, the Grand Haven City Council officially selected CopperRock as its development partner for the redevelopment of Chinook Pier. City staff was directed to begin negotiations for a development agreement and land lease. 

Much of the public feedback focused on preservation of the property, says Grand Haven City Planner Brian Urquhart.

“There’s a lot of sentimental value there for the public,” Urquhart says.

Public access

The redeveloped waterfront will be a publicly accessible and interactive space that integrates well with downtown, other businesses, other community assets such as the riverwalk, he says. 

He describes the plan as both “creative” and “considerate.”

“It will be an entrance and a gateway for those coming into downtown Grand Haven,” Urquhart says

Now it’s down to figuring out next steps to find out what funding sources they can apply for, Urquhart says.

The city is going to enter a land lease and will not be selling the property. This allows an element of local control over time. CopperRock Construction will build, own, and manage all aspects of the project. That includes the mini-golf and waterfront center. 

Outside of any indirect participation through a potential tax abatement request, the city is not financially participating in this project. 

The city’s primary benefits will be in added property taxes, ongoing maintenance of the infrastructure there, and relinquishing the ownership and operations of amenities such as mini-golf.

The project is estimated to cost CopperRock $13.9-17.9 million.

Both green space and an ice rink are included in the plan. There will be an enclosed multi-use market where the farmers market now stands that will include vendor shops. The area will create a firmer link from neighborhoods to the marina to the river walk.

The existing fish cleaning station, mini-golf, and piers will remain.

“Change happens,” Urquhart says. “Sometimes it’s not easy, but this is definitely change for the better.”

Construction is expected to begin this year.